[Hoot Gibson]

I didn't quite mean to defend Boehner. I think Paul's budget is written in the context that would afford as much fiscal responsibility as one might expect in the face of opposition from a substantial coalition of takers. The racist congressional black caucus, defenders of illegal immigration, gay rights activists, pro-choice activists, living document zealots, liberals, progressives (both parties), environmentalists, you know, the entirety that make up the left.

I gave Boehner the benefit of doubt for a long time, but the way that he and other members of the Republican establishment treaty conservative members in the Tea Party movement during and after this past campaign, convinced me that they are part of the problem. I think Boehner sees the Ryan budget as a bargaining chip and he will eventually agree to tax increases and get very little from Obama in return.

As he has done before, Boehner will punish conservatives who oppose the ultimate deal that he strikes with Obama. Conservatives should have refused to vote to reelect Boeher Speaker. Republicans are better than the alternative, but guys like Boehner are letting themselves be dragged to the left inch by inch. The Senate is in even worse shape. No Republican Minority Leader could do much there with RINOs like McCain and Graham competing for media approval.