Replies

Yep. But for once I agree with Romney on the substance, but disagree with him on the politics. This budget deal was a trap that the Republicans fell into, including Paul Ryan. For Romney to point that out now, just gives the media more fodder to report on a “rift” in the Republican party, taking away time we need to spend attacking Obama. However, to give credit where it’s due, some Republicans including Todd Akin voted against this raw deal. So Romney is with Todd Akin on this one.

I like the politics. First, that was a total garbage deal and slashed defense for little other gain. IMO, the Boehnner/McConnell team misplayed that whole thing so bad, it is what gave life back to Obama in this campaign. Romney is fighting to reverse those cuts in his campaign,and this supports that promise.

Also, if we will all remember, Ryan was amazingly completely absent from that debate. The leadership team was in the negotiations, and Ryan was not included by them. He was busy with other hearings. Ryan surely voted for it as he reports to the leadership, but he was not materially involved. He did one big sunday morning interview in the midst of it, and it was clear he was not at the table. He spoke of it in distant terms.

I am fine with Romney distancing himself from the GOP congressional leadership, as well as from the bush years. He needs to run as a leader that moves us past this current course.