In other words, Repubs are saying, throw us a bone and we’ll pass START for you.
This allows the Repubs to pass START and then excuse themselves when they get home.
Refuse to do any more business until after Christmas. If the Dems want to pass it without you, let it be on their heads. They won’t because they don’t have the nerve; they need cover from at least a few Repubs so they can claim it was “bipartisan”.
The Democrats can pass any of this stuff they want; they’re in the majority. You’re right, though. They’ve gotta have the few Republicans to give them cover so they can get them to take the blame with the voters next time around. Bipartisanship hasn’t bothered the Dems up till now; so why now?! Or as Obama said, “You Republicans can just ride in the back seat now!” So RIDE and let the Dems bask in the glow.