From TPM Reader CLI

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From TPM Reader CL:

I used to think the major reason why the Dem response has been muted on Gates was because if they put up a fight over Gates, the administration would withdraw Gates, and put in Joe Lieberman. Then CT’s Republican governor appoints an R and the Senate switches–until last night, however, when I finally got a look at the next round of 2008 Senate seats. Barring an orgy of retirings to run for President, there is a real liklihood that the Dems could hold their numbers . . . and pick up a number of R seats as well . . .

I think Joe sees this and realizes sure, he could switch parties – but in two years, he’ll be back in the minoity, and just like that – not only would he be completely irrelevant, but Meet the Press would stop calling.

He’s got us by balls? Not at all. And I’m willing to bet he knows it more than we do.

Precisely.

Update: That certainly explains why Joe is unlikely to switch parties. It’s less helpful in explaining why he would decline to be Secretary of Defense. But capping your public service career by presiding over the mess in Iraq, for which you are already in part blamed, seems very unappealing by any standard.

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