We're NOT Republicans...

[Mythsaje]

They spent the last several years FORCING their people to walk in lockstep with them. Tom Delay was known as "The Hammer," not because he was known for kicking the asses of Democrats, but because he was the one that enforced Republican rule in Congress.

The conflict in Congress right now is just another example of how the Democrats are different than the Republicans. They don't enforce a "fall in line" policy, where dissenters are silenced or "hammered" by some powerful figure.

So of course we look more fragmented than they did through most of their rule. We allow dissent and disagreement because, in the end, it strengthens us. We understand that different viewpoints give badly-needed perspective.

Of course we can't expect the media, and especially the Republicans themselves, to understand this. It's beyond their experience.

[AIJ Alom]

1. Exactly. We are more accepting of dissent within our ranks.

Also bear in mind that this is the first change in both houses of Congress in 12 years, and the internet/blogs weren't around to the same degree to create buzz and speculation.

And if I recall correctly there was a similar buzz, albeit on a smaller scale when Delay was forced to resign. Blount and Boehner went at it for the majority post.

[inthebrain]

2. It's the scapegoating that's got to stop

This is what is supposed to set us apart from Republicans.

Scapegoating of Welfare mothers

Scapegoating of Immigrants.

Scapegoating drug addicts.

Scapegoating the poor (see the above).

My only issue right now is that we seem to be going along with this and we are losing sight of what at heart of the issue. The last time during the Clinton presidency it was the welfare mothers that got it. Before that we controlled congress and we allaowed them to scapegoat the drug addicts and it's led to a wastefull war on drugs and senseless prison terms. Now adays it seems to be immigrants which I find most despicable.

The scapegoating has to stop and those doing it SHOULD be called to task. It accomplishes nothing as is evidenced by past victimized groups.

[AIJ Alom]

3. Excellent point ! n/t