Obama vs. the Dems (revisited)

As per an earlier post, here's Kimberly Strassel in the WSJ on Obama's "loyal" opposition in Congress-- from those in his own party...

"I do not work for Barack Obama." Mitch McConnell, Senate minority leader? No.

Try Harry Reid, huffing at the idea anyone calls the shots on Capitol Hill other than him. What was that about "change"?

The president-elect used that word on the campaign trail in the context of bipartisanship. To that extent, he's doing a fabulous job. Some of the gushiest quotes about him are emanating from Republicans, giddy at his outreach.

But the "change" Mr. Obama really needs is to avoid the fate of the last two Democratic presidents, both sabotaged by their own majorities. So far, not good. Mr. Obama has yet to assume office, and already his own party is beating his priorities like a conga drum....

Strassel details their opposition to the details of Obama's stimulus proposal. And then, some (psycho) analysis (no pun intended)...

Some of this is ego. Thrilled as Democrats were to take back the White House, John Conyers, David Obey, Mr. Rangel and Pete Stark alone can boast of (and do) cumulatively 146 years more in Washington than the Illinois rookie. They've also been waiting a long time to run things their way.

Some of this is pique. Democrats invested so heavily in the myth of Mr. Bush as hyperpartisan they now believe it. They don't feel Republicans deserve accommodation.

Some of it is politics. Don't forget, 95 House Democrats initially voted against rescue funds, worried about "bailout" sentiments back home. Until the Obama team offers leadership on the economy, they'll take the safe route over standing blindly with an untested president.

Whatever the cause, it is a dangerous beginning. Mr. Obama can currently afford to do some accommodating. But if he gets a reputation for getting rolled by the unruly mob, his agenda is kaput....All this is taking place on the honeymoon. Yet to come are difficult issues -- the budget, health care, climate change. At that point, we'll find out who works for whom.