SOME LIBERALS NEVER LEARN - AT 8:12 A.M. ET:  Historians tend to remind us that, from 1938 onward for a number of decades, Congress was essentially run by a coalition of Republicans and moderate Democrats.  Now the behavior of some liberals are making a similar coalition possible again.  This must be regarded as a major political development, and it centers on one of the most significant legislative initiatives this year - the drive for "reform" of the health-care system.  Roll Call reports:

The fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition likely holds the key to enacting a universal health care plan this year, but so far the Democratic bloc feels like it’s being cast aside.

Forty-five Blue Dogs, led by Rep. Mike Ross (Ark.), on Monday warned that they need to be part of the writing of health care legislation in a sharply worded letter to Energy and Commerce Chairman Henry Waxman (D-Calif.), Ways and Means Chairman Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.) and Education and Labor Chairman George Miller (D-Calif.).

The Blue Dogs pronounced themselves “increasingly troubled” at the lack of involvement in the writing of the massive bill and said their limited role is “especially concerning in light of the collaborative approach taken by our Senate colleagues.”

Well, look who the moderates are writing to.  These are three of the most liberal members of Congress.  George Miller is so far over in left field that he's almost at the foul line.

Ross made clear that the success of the health care overhaul was at risk...

...“We speak with 51 votes, and we expect to be involved in helping draft the legislation. And if we’re not, I see a lot more complications down the road on health care than what the leadership experienced on cap-and-trade,” Ross said in an interview Tuesday.

The power of the blue dogs will only grow if President Obama's popularity erodes, as it may well. 

Many of the Democrats elected to the House last year are from moderate districts.  They will demand to be heard and listened to.  Their reelection chances depend largely on their ability to convince voters of their independence from the liberals who run the Democratic Party.  A smart leadership would involve them, and recognize the power in their 51 votes. 

Roll Call reports that the Dem leadership is now pledging to involve different factions of the Democratic Party in health-care legislation.  We'll see if that promise is kept.  House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer is an ally of the blue dogs, and no great ally of Speaker Nancy Pelosi.  There is potential for harmony here, but plenty of potential for sparks.  The Democratic Party has a history of sparking.

May 13, 2009