There is still the possibility, however unlikely, that the Democratic caucus could join with 18 or so Republicans who are interested in the appearance of governing, select a Speaker from among that group, and proceed in something resembling regular order. The performance this week of the Senate, motoring on despite the death of one of th…
There is still the possibility, however unlikely, that the Democratic caucus could join with 18 or so Republicans who are interested in the appearance of governing, select a Speaker from among that group, and proceed in something resembling regular order. The performance this week of the Senate, motoring on despite the death of one of their number, and passing by a huge majority the legislation needed to move on, is a signal that bipartisanship is possible, just difficult.
However, I think the Democrats have the power to control that negotiation. They should bide their time, let those moderate GOPers come begging for their help. I heard a Democratic strategist say today, that the Democrats only have one person they'll support for Speaker... Hakeem Jeffries. I have to wonder why the Dems would support any R for Speaker.
Time is of the essence here, and the choice of a Republican recognizes the current partisan balance in the House. If Mr. Jeffries is as good a practical politician as he seems to be, the Democrats will retain the power you correctly say they have while looking like heroes for taking a risk in order to keep the government operating.
There is still the possibility, however unlikely, that the Democratic caucus could join with 18 or so Republicans who are interested in the appearance of governing, select a Speaker from among that group, and proceed in something resembling regular order. The performance this week of the Senate, motoring on despite the death of one of their number, and passing by a huge majority the legislation needed to move on, is a signal that bipartisanship is possible, just difficult.
That's really the only road out of this.
Agreed. Now all we need is for someone inside the Beltway to figure that out.
However, I think the Democrats have the power to control that negotiation. They should bide their time, let those moderate GOPers come begging for their help. I heard a Democratic strategist say today, that the Democrats only have one person they'll support for Speaker... Hakeem Jeffries. I have to wonder why the Dems would support any R for Speaker.
Time is of the essence here, and the choice of a Republican recognizes the current partisan balance in the House. If Mr. Jeffries is as good a practical politician as he seems to be, the Democrats will retain the power you correctly say they have while looking like heroes for taking a risk in order to keep the government operating.
Lots of people say "there is no good Republican." But if anyone knows who is one, it is Jeffries. Lets hope he's already making the calls.
Good reporting, TC.