The nuclear option. They did it in Texas. They'll do it in DC

[johncoby2]

Here in Texas we have the 2/3 rule in the Senate which requires 2/3 of the Senate to allow a debate on the floor. (in short) This was to encourage bipartisianship, honor, integrity, yada yada. And very few times was the 2/3 rule used to block something.

During the redistricting fiasco, moderate Republicans crossed with the Democrats and blocked the bill because of it's higly partisian nature.

So, when the 3rd special session was called, the repugs took out the 2/3rds rule and the bill moved to the floor.

DO NOT THINK FOR ONE SINGLE DAMN MINUTE THAT THE REPUBLICAN PARTY WILL PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY AND BIPARTISIANSHIP OF THE SENATE.

They destroyed it in Texas. They will do it in DC. They dont care.

[amber dog democrat]

1. My only consolation is that this won't go on forever.

and a small consolation it is. There is going to be a growing oppostion. Its just going to take a while and in the meantime we are grappling with a monopoly of power held by mindless scum weasles.

[DistressedAmerican]

2. I Completely Disagree...

See this:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x3493313

I will no longer abide by fearing the Nuclear Option. If they are going to do it. Make them do it. However, I stongly believe that they know it would blow up on them...

[BillZBubb]

3. Not only did they do it, but it was politically very successful.

People incorrectly assume that by using (abusing) their power the Repugs will turn off the voters. It never works out that way. The Repugs are stronger in Texas now than before the nuclear option. The Texas Democrats CAVED like they always do. The Texas Democrats are now owned by the Repugs and they know it. They are whipped.

I have no doubt a similar scenario will unfold in Washington. The Democrats will make some noise at first, but once the Repugs pull the plug, the Dems will roll over and ask for some more. The Repugs will GAIN strength nationally from this. They will be seen as the ones willing to fight for something. The Dems will be seen as appeasers and weaklings.

[bookman]

5. Caved?

I thought the dems in Texas gave it a good fight. They were exiled for how long? One caved and the repugs got their quorum.

Correct me if I'm mistaken.

[BillZBubb]

6. Actually several caved early or didn't participate, not just one.

My point is what did the Dems in Texas do AFTER the Repug's power grab? Nada! Sure they filed a few weak court cases that weren't going anywhere. But, inside the legistlative branch there were no serious repercussions. Now, they talk about working together and the Democrats who weaseled early on and suck up to the Repugs are still treated like good party members.

To me the fight should never have ended once the power grab was made.

[johncoby2]

7. Not quite sure what you are talking about.

Some like Senator armbrister is a republican in democrats clothing. He never supported the quorum busting.

senator whitmire's lawfirm was being threatened. He had to come back.

But now, what do you want them to do? They are overrun on every bill that would help the common citizen. What power do they have?

[lonestarnot]

4. And if they do...I hope that will be all she wrote!