With a Day to Think About It

I wrote last night’s post after learning that at least eight Democrats voted in favor of John Thune’s deal and continuing resolution, which achieved virtually none of the demands that started this fight. I support everything. If anything, I’m more sure of my feelings about it.

There is a key distinction I was trying to make in what I wrote. And that is that there is a difference between the deal itself and what it leaves for Democrats and the broader anti-Trump opposition. This deal shows us that Democrats still don’t have the caucus they need to lead this fight that will continue at least through this decade. But the shutdown also accomplished a lot. And despite the WTF loophole at the 10-yard line, it’s still a radically different huddle than the one we had in March. For me, it’s a proof of concept that worked. Democratic voters must continue to demand more, keep up the pressure, and continue to purge the Senate caucus of senators who are not up to the new reality.

In other words, it’s not about defending anything. I’m certainly not happy with how this ended and I didn’t approve of anything this caucus did. I am pleased with what Democratic voters accomplished in forcing change in the caucus from March to November. So it’s not that Democrats demanded more and this deal isn’t that bad. It’s the Democrats who have already caused their representatives to change a lot, and they must continue to increase the pressure, purge and reshape the way Democratic elected officials approach the question of power. And another continued resolution cliff looms on the horizon in January. If you haven’t already read my post from last night, I encourage you to do so.