"This is a key paragraph - and if Frist does not step up now and pull the trigger - his momentum will be lost."
As it is now, Frist would not have the votes if he 'pulled the trigger.'
That has to wait to see if the dems default on their deal. If so, then some of the seven Republicans will support the rule change, thereby somewhat redeeming Frist.
But regardless of how this plays out, Frist has demonstrated he is NOT the calibre of leader, to justify being President.
If he was, this would not have taken place, for he would have "controlled" three of the seven, and had the rule change votes securely in hand.
And even if he had the votes, he might have cut a similar deal, and taken credit for the "leadership" to accomplish same.
"If the dems default"
THEY JUST DID TODAY WITH THE VOTE AGAINST BOLTON.
Re: Frist - Remember during the 2000 primaries - Bush was blindsided by McCain - and Bush did the unthinkable - he fought back. McCain's intimidation did not work on Bush - and I guess we'll see if it works on Frist.
I'm not willing to sell out Frist just yet.
President? There were many here me included that were upset from the git-go why GW wanted this fish to lead.
Timing is everything. Frist moved too slowly. Since convening the 109th congress this has been a major topic of discussion and great need. He waivered and waivered.
Put off ... put off... put off ... and when he finally says he is going ahead ... he still waited three weeks ( hoping the democrats would give). It was so exasperating and untimately futile. He is too passive.
They play a "no holds barred" kind of game, and he is letting them while he does nothing. Really nothing. Not good Presidential material. Makes me shudder to think about that possibility.