The Republican party in the House of Representatives have secured their place in history. They have killed a bailout bill.
Yes, there were plenty of Democrats who voted against it but that was mostly because the Republicans could only produce a measly sixty-odd votes. Without more significant support, there was not going to be significant support from Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats.
Oh sure, you can try to blame conservative Republicans like Jeb Hensarling (R-TX). The blame really belongs with one particular person who could not suck it up and live up to what the moment demanded: John Boehner (R-OH).
The allegedly esteemed "leader" of the Republicans in the House of Representatives esentially said the the bill had his support and he encouraged people to vote for it if their conscience allowed it.
Note to John McCain: If you want an example of inability to lead, John Boehner is your boy!
I'll have more later but basically, my initial read is that if Boehner had pushed it there would have been enough Republican votes to attract the Democratic votes that wanted to make sure there was cover. It could have been more like 280-153 if the Reps got closer to 100 votes and the Dems who wanted to make sure of Republican support came out of hiding.
John Boehner is to blame.
The result. The Democrats will now introduce a bill that they like and that they feel they can get passed. The Republicans have lost their chance to influence this.
Yes, that means they can wash their hands of this. That means they can't be blamed for it if it fails. It also means they are on the hook if everything melts down. And they can't claim the credit if it works.
More later, I'm sure.
Comments welcome,
Pat McGovern
Update: For those who want it, here is what Boehner actually said before the vote:
“I am encouraging every member of our conference whose conscience will allow them to support this bill,” said Representative John A. Boehner of Ohio, the Republican leader.
Wow, now that's leadership!;->
It's got electoral votes. It's what politicians crave. Sphere: Related Content
