I think the reasoning was, in the article I read, that Collins is the Chair of a very important committee and wouldn't want that jeopardized by going against Republican leadership. Also, she is hot under the collar about some bases that are on the BRAC list...
The Senators from Mained should be punished if they betray the Republicans on this vote.
That's a VERY interesting point. It's my understanding that Congress votes on the BRAC as a whole, though, so there's no way any of the Maine bases can be taken off the list. I'll bet the SCHEDULING of the closings is up for grabs, though.
The Senators from Maine should be punished if they betray the Republicans on this vote.
"Also, she is hot under the collar about some bases that are on the BRAC list"
Maine was hit very hard by the base closing list. I have a feeling that Frist could get her vote (and Snowe's vote, possibly) if he's willing to open that list and make some promises.