One More Thing

I still think, in the short run (next two years) we have little to fear (others may disagree). However, I would be foolish to think that this report about Richard Durbin to the incoming freshman senators, isn't the least bit an act of blatant intimidation (again, from CongressDailPM)

Incoming Majority Whip Durbin today cautioned Democratic freshmen about carefully exerting their power in the Senate, as the newly elected Democratic majority will drive next year's congressional agenda with a razor-thin majority. At a coffee session this morning, Durbin told the eight new Democrats they would have more power in the Senate than as House members, but if they decide to stop a unanimous consent deal, for example, they must be willing to "pay the price." There is likely to be payback down the road for stopping another senator's bill, he warned. As majority whip, Durbin faces a difficult challenge keeping his caucus in line and united behind the leadership's agenda. Complicating his job is the handful of Democratic senators who are considering a run for the White House in 2008.