Tuesday in Massachusetts

I must confess to being worried about Tuesday's election. The right is far more energized and passionate at the moment. Did the Democrats get the wake-up call in time? I think the huge numerical advantage of the left will prevail, but there is no telling.

What if Brown wins? It will be an earthquake. Will Health Care Reform be dead? Um, no. If the Democrats care what is best for their country (from their perspective) and their party, the House will merely pass the Senate bill as is, and the job is done. We can move on to jobs and the economy. I think that Reid has had Snowe and Collins available, if needed, but that support is likely fleeting if there is a trembler right next door to Maine.

Should the Democrats slow-walk certification if Brown wins? In Massachusetts, absolutely not. They need to certify promptly, with only a photo-finish holding things up (see Minnesota). In the US Senate, it depends. It is said that the Democrats could call for a Senate vote on reconciliation, which the GOP could delay for 4 - 5 days in an effort to get Brown seated before the vote. Well, what is good for the goose is good for the gander. If McConnell wants to use Senate rules to hold up a vote, I see no reason that Reid can't use Senate rules to hold up certification.

I am frustrated that Health Care Reform has taken this long. The GOP has cried, "Why so fast!?", when in fact it consumed the whole first year of the congressional agenda. Knowing what is going on in Massachusetts, why couldn't they have acted this past week? There is no excuse for dragging this out when we have solid majorities in both houses. Thats right, I have said it before. With power comes accountability.

I think the Democrats are actually in a pretty good position for 2010. I expect a clear economic recovery to be evident prior to Labor Day. The Republicans - still a broken brand - have probably peaked too soon. It is over nine months until the election. How did things look nine months ago? Much will happen, domestically and internationally, in the coming months that will shape November. It will be fun to watch.