I agree with you. This "no-win" situation is another example of Lott's ineptitude as a leader. This continuous groveling before those who are drooling at his slow, painful, political death, demonstrates his lack of vision and initiative.
Imagine this - Trent Lott and the Republican Caucus in the Senate go into a closed door meeting with a bunch of fan fare to decide Lott's fate. After an hour or two, Lott comes out and goes to the podium and says:
"We have unanimously decided to request the resignation of Robert Byrd."
And offer nothing more. Can you see the tide of battle changing? This statement would beg the question as to why? The media would be wetting themselves with the exitement of controversy and anger at being foiled. FWIW.