Harry used to be a boxer. So...here are a few appropriate analogies for how I (and many of us) have felt over the past two years watching him rumble with a truly despicable opponent.
Over much of that time it seems that a lot of his actions more closely resembled those of "the opponent" (the guy who's sent into the ring to get his brains scrambled by the champion or up and coming start) than a dominant and skilled fighter using his superior firepower and, initially at least, the crowd solidly in his corner to decimate a weaker and outclassed opponent. No, Harry seemed more like Ali doing Rope A Dope, only the opponent, rather than becoming weakened and reckless, only got stronger, bolder, and more skillful.
There were times where Harry showed some mettle, especially on HCR, for a while, when he added the Public Option to the Manager's amendment and then, in a desperate effort to get Lieberman and Lincoln and Nelson on board, Medicare 55+. But mainly it's been one frustrating moment of indecisiveness and real or perceived weakness after another.
More below...
Over the past 30 days it seems that Harry has morphed into some kind of superhero. His tenacity and unwavering leadership during the Lame Duck has resulted in stuff actually getting done in the Senate---the place bills usually go to die.
So, without further ado...my letter to Harry submitted on his website. If you agree that Harry HAS "grown a pair" of late please consider telling him so yourself. When Harry fights for us we should tell him that we've got his back too!
Dear Harry
"I just want to take this opportunity to thank you for your leadership and unwavering commitment to the American People in the face of unprecedented obstructionism by the minority party which, frankly, appears to have been motivated purely by their insatiable appetite for political power, rather than the slightest desire to do what's right or best for the Country.
Country First may be their motto but their behavior has shown, time and again that they're willing to destroy the very backbone of this country---working Americans--- to wrest control of it for themselves and their corporate cronies and overlords.
Thanks for standing up for us, especially in these last 30 days. You've been a pillar of strength, a beacon of hope for all Democats, as we prepare for 2 long years of investigations, hearings, subpoenas, and attempted defunding of everything you and the President and House have worked so hard to achieve over the past two years. My faith in you and the Senate Leadership to stand firm in the face of this impending onslaught is renewed by what your demonstrated this past month. "
Sincerely
W_____"