For Moderates, A Chance for Subtle Protest

[liberal N proud]

In a clear warning to Bush, several of the moderates took the latter course last night, with subtle but unmistakable protests as the president spoke.

When Bush told the crowd that personal Social Security accounts are the best way to improve the retirement system, most Republican lawmakers leapt to their feet. But a small band of moderates -- including Sens. Olympia J. Snowe (Maine), Susan Collins (Maine), George V. Voinovich (Ohio) and Mike DeWine (Ohio) -- were slow to join the applause. As others felt the pressure to come to their feet, Snowe, who has said she would "certainly not" support Bush's proposal, remained seated without applauding. She smiled uncomfortably and re-crossed her legs.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A59093-2005Feb2.html

[xultar]

1. Hopefully we can foster a relationship with these folks. That's how

we can win this game. Foster relationships and open the door to Rethug moderates.

[Jo March]

2. You are so right xultar

We need to "court" and "woo" these folks. A lot of good can be done if we do this now.

[Cary]

4. I don't understand how they retain their moderates in the first place

Why be part of a party that offers you no voice? Of course it must come down to money, somehow.

[xultar]

7. Susan Collins is kewl. I wonder what issues it is that divides us.

Isn't that what you wonder sometimes.

Perhaps money is one of the bigger issues. REthugs get huge $$$$ Dem candidates don't.

[cyn2]

3. I'm proud of my Senator Snowe...

I'm suprised by DeWine. Is he becoming more moderate?

[PROGRESSIVE1]

5. But you must vote for the Democrat in 2006!

[liberal N proud]

6. DeWine up for re-election in 06