The ink may barely be dry on Specter's new Democratic Credentials, and we're already abuzz over the implications. But while he may protest that he's still "against" EFCA, we already know the truth--he can be made to bend more easily than most senators.
So let's make him.
I would humbly suggest starting an organizing/fundraising movement for the express purpose of gaining a PA Senator's vote for EFCA. A primary challenge is not necessary at this point, but the organization could promise its support for a Democratic Senate candidate in 2010 who commits to EFCA. If PA labor would go all-in on such a notion, it would provide ample incentive to get with the program. It would be Specter's choice to bend to the will of his constituents, or see a primary challenge--possibly with a nice nest egg as a part of this type of initiative.
Specter may have lost 200k+ voters to party switchers, but there are a lot more democrats out there who are less inclined to support Specter as an individual. Over a fringe Santorum-like Repug, sure, but definitely not a lock for him simply through a party change.
And I suspect his statement on EFCA is more of a face-saving gesture to show that he's doing it because--well, who knows--but it's an attempt to look firm in the face of adversity. Maybe to placate some funding sources nervous about EFCA. But not out of a strong principle.
I'm not able to launch the effort myself--but I'll gladly donate the first $25.00 if it gets launched. I can contribute a slogan, though:
Make Arlen Specter a card-carrying Democrat.