The Democrats are boxed into complicated and unpopular positions because they tend to stand on principle—although the principles involved are often antiquated, peripheral and, arguably, foolish. When discussed in the mainstream media, this line will be edited to:
The Democrats are boxed into complicated and unpopular positions because they tend to stand on principle.
with no further elaboration or discussion of context.
They oppose it because it's a Republican bill. That is all. If Algore was President and he proposed it, they would be for it. Politics first, winning first, above all else.
However, these are not bills that Republicans should support. Too much cost for the taxpayer. The Republicans are also playing games.