Well, even if Boner ever grew a pair (I know, fantasy), there would always be 30 or 40 limp wristed RINOs who would shrivel in fear at the thought of the government ever running out of money, and at the terrible things the Post would say about them. They would join with Pelosi and so, to that extent, she does have leverage over the discussions. She can offer a compromise that might attract enough Republicans to gain a majority.
The point is moot, however, because Boner will offer the same compromise. The compromise is, Obama wins, but he's nice about it.
” Im afraid she still does have one lever. His name is Boner.”
All she needs, based on recent history.