[BigLittle]

the president's allies were expected to rely on an infrequently used parliamentary tactic called "reconciliation" that requires a simple majority

[mneville]

I wonder what the playing field will look like if Obama wins this fight.
My concern is he will bring fighting down to a new level of partisanship and distrust — a level he created.
I remember during Reagan's term, he and Tip O’Neal spoke on the phone after Reagan won his stimulas package. O’Neal congradulated the President for winning the day. Both O’Neal and Reagan respected each other. Can you imagine Obama or Pelossi ever having any level of respect for any republican? How are Democrats going to look at each other after they “win” this battle and going against the will of the people? Shameful.
If you cannot plan the game with any sense of honor, do not play the game