Kiss the Ring

From 2Millionth Web Log

Steve Benen:

Boehner's argument is kind of silly. For one thing, Democrats aren't responsible -- at least not solely responsible -- for elevating Limbaugh into the role of de facto Republican leader. It's the result of a combination of factors, including his gift of self-promotion and the GOP's interest in kissing his ring.

More importantly, though, I don't think Boehner fully appreciates the point of "diversionary tactics." As the Minority Leader sees it, Democrats don't want to talk about their economic policies, so they're talking about Limbaugh.

But here's the follow-up question: why would Democrats be reluctant to talk about their economic policies? Americans like the Democrats' economic policies. The policies make sense, especially when compared to Republican rhetoric about spending freezes, tax cuts, deficit reduction, and a balanced-budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Put it this way: with Democrats enjoying a huge advantage on economic policy in the midst of an economic crisis, and with the GOP's economic agenda coming straight out of the Hoover playbook, what possible incentive does the majority party have in mulling "diversionary tactics"? Why engage in a "change-the-subject campaign" when your side is winning the most important economic debate in generations?