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Bipartisanship or just capitulation

August 7th, 2006

Digby has a post up about Bipartisanship, or the lack thereof…

Since 1995, when Republicans took control of both sides of the Capitol, the negotiating sessions often have been limited to GOP senators and representatives, with the Democrats locked out along with the press.

That arrangement has been reinforced by the “Hastert doctrine,” the policy enunciated by House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert that he will bring to the floor only bills that are supported by the majority of the Republican caucus. Because of that policy, bipartisan coalitions have become rarities in the House. The emphasis now is entirely on shaping bills in conference that most House Republicans can embrace
David Broder

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