So a lot of people in the blogosphere dont like the guy. He doesnt seem to fit with the progressive view at all. However, I think we should at least give him a chance. NYtimes details some of his assets:
Allies and admirers say Mr. Reid's tenacity might come as a surprise to President Bush.
"I think that George Bush and the Senate Republicans are in for a big surprise," said Jenny Backus, a Democratic consultant who used to work for Mr. Reid. "Harry Reid is one of the toughest people that you'll ever meet and he's also one of the most determined people I've ever met."
He has pushed the administration hard on Yucca mountain, and in a state that Bush won by just 2%, hopefully we can make this an issue to win in 08 there. The Southwest will be a key area in the coming years, and it isnt so bad to have our leader from there.
And few people in Washington can, like Mr. Reid, claim as friends and financial supporters the former head of the Republican National Committee, Frank J. Fahrenkopf Jr., and the former president of Naral Pro-Choice America, Kate Michelman.
Yes, Reid is pro-life, but he is a man who will put the views of his caucus first, as the article noted.
"When the conservative talk show hosts start saying bad things about Harry Reid, it will be like attacking Mr. Rogers," Senator Ben Nelson, Democrat of Nebraska, said of Mr. Reid, who shares Mr. Rogers's affection for a cardigan.
He's not as polarizing Daschle. He does have a knack for making alliances with Republicans. If he can bring aboard some moderates(Chafee, Collins, Snowne, McCain even), then we will a strong voice in the Senate
Finally, Dick Durbin will be minority whip. I'll take Reid-Durbin over Daschle-Reid any day. Im not overly thrilled with Reid, but frankly, I think he does have some good qualities as mentioned. Im willing to give him a shot.