So it seems one of the thorniest problems the incoming Obama Administration must face isn't whether to bail out the auto industry, or even how to distribute the $700 billion dollars that's going to the financial sector. It's what to do about Joe Lieberman, the so-called independent senator from Connecticut. Lieberman, aas we all know, backed John McCain in the presidential race. Not only that, he spoke at the Republican National Convention! Remember, this is the guy who was Al Gore's running mate just eight years ago.
Here's the crux of the problem. Since winning re-election as an independent in '06, Lieberman has caucused with the Democrats. That means he's risen to become chair of the Homeland Security Committee. There are those who want to see him stripped of that post for his extraordinary lack of loyalty. In fact, some progressive Democrats want him run out of the caucus. They aren't worried about needing Lieberman's vote to move legislation to the floor.
Lieberman, for his part, is playing cagey. He's publicly toyed with the idea of caucusing with the GOP, saying in effect if he's stripped of his committee chair that's just what he'll do. Interestingly, there's a cadre of prominent Democrats who want to keep Lieberman in the fold. They include former president Clinton, and, get this, president-elect Obama. Neither has much to say about the turncoat's staying on as Homeland Security Committee chair.
To allow Joe Lieberman to dictate the terms of remaining with Democrats in the Senate is an affront. Had he remained neutral in the presidential race he might have had a case. He didn't. He became John McCain's moderate shill, perhaps on promise of a juicy cabinet post had McCain won. Lieberman has been holding a grudge against a number of Democrats since they abandoned him when he lost his state's primary two years ago. So why on earth should he be rewarded for treachery?
One would think it's the Democrats who have the upper hand here. It would seem simple enough to say to Joe Lieberman you can stay with our caucus, but you have to give up your committee chair. If not, see ya!
What do you think? Should the Democrats play hardball with Joe Lieberman?
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What's hardball? I think he should get out of that Chair seat. I am not sure he should be in the caucus, as he can listen and then tell Republicans. Of one thing I am sure: there will be interesting behind the scenes Obama input. I am thinking, this Dems bunch, is not much of a "make waves" crew, so I'm not all that expectant of much now.
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