Hugging Republicans Until It Hurts

[babylonsister]

So here's more reasons for 'bipartisanship'. It's hurting the rethugs-I'll take it!


Hugging Republicans Until It Hurts

By CARL HULSE
Published: June 6, 2009


WASHINGTON — As Representative John M. McHugh of New York began planning his retirement from the House after being picked to be the new secretary of the Army, a chunk of Republican morale prepared to depart with him.

And that was just what Democrats had counted on.

In picking Republicans like Mr. McHugh for top jobs, the Obama administration says it is assembling a coalition government that welcomes qualified members of the opposition. It gives the White House a claim to bipartisanship despite continuing clashes with Republican Congressional leaders.

But the political benefits are an equally strong incentive. Remaining Republican colleagues become discouraged and feel further isolated in the minority. Political vacancies are created. And Republicans can be painted as being hostile to more moderate Republicans or those willing to engage the Democratic administration.

In embracing select Republicans, the Obama administration — notably Rahm Emanuel, the White House chief of staff — seems to be applying this maxim: Hug them until it hurts.

more...

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/07/us/politics/web06hill.html

[HopeOverFear]

1. Rahmbo

[Cha]

2. This is such a good article..thanks, babylon...

"In accepting, Mr. McHugh noted that he was just the latest in a line of people of differing backgrounds and, in his case, “differing political persuasions, who have been provided by President Obama the chance to heed, to answer new, important and challenging problems facing this country.”