Washblog

Democrat big-wigs calculate that the 13% who are opposed to the bill because it doesn't go far enough have nothing in common with the 20% in the "middle" who have nothing in common with the 35% who oppose. They figure the existence of a program - any program, really - will neutralize the 13%, sway the swayable 20% and even take some some of the 35% who will realize that their Medicare is not going to be taken away.

Where the polls see 3%, Dem leadership sees a bright future. They figure that their natural constituency is among people who were worried that the government would "go too far" but will ultimately support this approach - the least-persuasive argument out there. Dem leadership sees their political future among the nation's ardent supporters of Medicare Part D.

Okay. Fair enough. Whatever the numbers, it's a legitimate argument and it has its adherents. Many in the media will, of course, report that the Congress "passed healthcare" and go on to more important news about sports and entertainment. They might even get David Brooks to once more compliment them for being "Burkean".

I like the chances of Progressives linking with popular discontent a lot better.