Years back, toward the end of a closed door meeting of House democrats, one member floated a tactical suggestion and then wondered aloud what the "enemy" (Republicans) would have to say about it. Danny Rostenkowski quickly
piped-up and reminded those in the room that the Republicans were opponents, not enemies.....and that the enemy was the Senate. The problem as I see it is that there aren't enough people posting in that forum who're able to cross swords on a regular basis mindful of the fact that they're facing off against an opponent...not a sworn enemy.
The fact of the matter is, we need more dignified characters like the Red Menace in there who knows how to take a shot (or call for a quick deportation to a labor camp out near Lake Baikal) without sinking to that "you're %$#@! immoral scum" level. In fact, just to illustrate that point, perhaps this afternoon I'll start a juicy little thread about the weekend I just spent with a boatload of House, Senate & White House leadership staff and shower 'Red' with fresh details about how we'll advance various legislative balls (Social Security, judicial appointments, etc) through an increasingly sticky thicket....and allow others to witness his signature velvet fist of a response.