Democratic control of Washington might look solid on paper, especially with the election of two Democratic senators from Georgia, but centrists are warning top leaders against pushing a radical agenda.
In the House, Speaker Nancy Pelosi has an 11-seat majority, but the tight-fisted Blue Dog Coalition that frowns on political excess is already threatening to bolt if liberals go too far.
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Hawaii Rep. Ed Case, who is the strategist for the 18-member coalition, said that Pelosi’s majority is closer to “five to seven” seats at best.
“The practical reality is that five to seven Democrats who are not happy with a particular outcome and willing to vote against the bill can, in fact, prevent measures from passing the House,” he said, highlighting the growing influence of centrists.
ICYMI: We’re excited to announce our leadership for the 117th Congress. Congratulations to our Co-Chairs @RepStephMurphy, @RepEdCase, and @RepOHalleran! Read more about them here. –> https://t.co/p8z31qMQoN pic.twitter.com/2G4JuonD8h
— Blue Dog Coalition (@HouseBlueDogs) January 4, 2021
And in the 50-50 Senate, the situation is similar, especially after West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin laid down his own warning against liberal overreach.
While a challenge for Pelosi and Sen. Chuck Schumer, Case said Republicans will face the real test. “I think the Republicans have a basic choice about whether they’re simply going to be a party of ‘no, no, no’ or whether they actually want to work with us to get things done,” Case said, adding, “Our doors are open, and I think that there is an opportunity for Republicans to take advantage of that and to influence with us.”
