"What’s a comity?"
Definition;
"Comity": a state of mutual harmony, friendship, and respect, esp. between or among nations or people; civility.
In the US Senate "Comity" is the 'rule'. They (senators) all talk about the 'comity of the senate'. In practice it means...
- Dick Durbin can get up on the senate floor and call the US Military Nazis.
- 'Hairy Reed'(sic) can call President Bush is a War Criminal.
- Then a republican will get up and say "excuse me but that isn't nice." (if that, or anything)
- Another example of 'comity of the senate' was McCain and his gang of 14. Things were getting testy and ruining the 'comity'. So he and his cronies stepped in to restore the 'comity of the senate'.
And then, when the senate is gaveled closed for the day, they go drinking or dining with Republicans and talk about getting together for a game of golf -- or who has the hottest mistress.(/s)
Note: 'Comity' is Senate specific. In the House there is no 'comity'. Those that rule kick butt and treat the minority party like scum. (the GOP did this too)