Nah, Arlen's not stupid... just roughly 33.3% more duplicitous than the average US Senator.
That's why holding his feet to the fire a little bit should work to our advantage. He only fought for Clarence Thomas after he caught hell for borking Judge Bork. Same concept at work here.
It never hurts to make our own slimeballs sweat a little. He opened his big piehole and gave us the opportunity to make a semi-honest man out of him... and we're taking that opportunity. At least that's the way I'm looking at this.
I for one am glad he opened his piehole and spewed his 'threats" because it showed many who they voted for and what he really cares about. You're right - it's good to make him sweat a little, or a lot. Based on the coverage this got, I'd say he's sweating more than a little. Not that he won't get his coveted seat, but that he has to actually work for the people. ;)
BTW - I like the updated profile.