The problem with your understanding is that
"facing a tangible threat" means something entirely different to a kerry, a clinton, or a carter than it would mean to a rational human being.
I honestly believe that half the democrats in congress would hand over the keys to anyone who had a good presentation and promised to raise the minimum wage while increasing taxes on the over $100K "rich" folks.
I think Laura was giving them the benefit of the doubt. I don't necessarily agree with her.