There are 11 items on the agenda that the dems left Indiana over. I think the Gov of Indiana conceded one of them (right to work) to feel them out. They (dems) are going to hold out for them all. I know a lot of FRers are mad about the cave in , but I am not interpreting this as a cave in yet. I think it is a political tactic to lure them back for the other ten items. If the dems do not come back then I think that the GOP did not cave on this.
The Democrats are going to sit it out. They really have nothing to lose now.
>> I think the Gov of Indiana conceded one of them (right to work) to feel them out.
Giving up ground is a proven winning strategy when dealing with terrorists. Did Squishy Mitch study at the Obama School of Diplomacy?
Thank you. I think the Dems really got outmaneuvered here. By appearing to cave temporarily on one issue, the GOP made themselves look far more reasonable to voters, and made the Dems look like spoiled brats who want everything. That will increase political pressure by the public on those Democrats, and I think they'll eventually be forced to cave. Because as a practical matter, Illinois would not cooperate in trying to return them forcibly.
Then, after the GOP gets all the other stuff in the books, they'll turn undivided attention on the critical right to work legislation. It's a more tactical approach rather than just charging in headfirst in what may be a more emotionally satisfying, but ultimately less successful, legislative approach. But that means you're clearly right -- you have to see the end game before concluding that the GOP really "caved".