About To Make A Huge Mistake

Republicans are about to be in a lot of trouble.

Two major obstacles now stand between Democrats and the jobs package they'd like to pass before next week's President's Day recess: A ton of snow, and equally substantial GOP obstructionism. The question is: which will thaw first?

The snow has pushed the Senate floor schedule back at least a day--a significant amount of time given the crowded nature of the calendar. But Democrats still don't have enough votes to overcome a filibuster, and unless they can win over at least one Republican, they may adjourn this coming weekend empty-handed.

What's the hang up? Republicans are working with Democrats on one key aspect of the legislation: tax breaks for employers who hire new employees. But beyond such a measure, Republicans are balking at supporting a full package. And with Democrats now one vote shy of a 60-vote supermajority, they will need one GOPer to break ranks if they want the package to overcome a filibuster.

Here's the problem:   There's not a Republican who can sign on to the bill.  The Teabaggers will see to that.  On the other hand, there's little danger in not signing onto the bill unless you're an incumbent Republican Senator up for relection:  Richard Burr and David Vitter are about the only two people who have to worry.

What will they do?  Only one has to cross that line...and neither one can afford to look like they blocked a jobs bill in an election year with 9.7% unemployment.  I'm betting one jumps.