This only holds true if the MSM controls the debate. If that is correct, then it doesn't matter what the Republicans do, they will be blamed for the economy anyway.
What Charles Krauthammer and all the other ruling class pundits are unwilling to acknowledge is that is not about the political parties. It is about who controls the debate.
The MSM no longer controls the debate. If they did, there would be no Tea Party and no debate. The Republicans need to show that they are an alternative to the ruling class, who have brought us to the edge of ruin.
To that end, they need to hold firm.
This struggle is essentially between the MSM and the new media. We are part of the new media, and need to push as hard as we can.
Unfortunately, I don't think this is in question at all. The MSM still controls the debate for most of the voting public. Yes, the new media is a force but how many FReepers and Rush listeners do you think exist? It is not anywhere close to a voting majority. I blame government schools.