Labor is a "special interest group" to most people. It is a "fundamental mechanism with which to enact social change in society" to the elites in the labor movement and some of its members who see beyond the association-type benefits of their membership.

Although I do not agree with the reaction of some in the labor movement against this agreement between the Democrats and the Administration, that doesn't mean that they don't have the right to object. The fact is, the Dems would have never been able to get the White House to agree to all of their demands if it had not been for labor. I wonder if they would have even dared ask for so much without labor pushing.

If THAT is what it means to be a special interest group, labor should wear it proudly. They got what they have been asking for - short of stopping trade altogether, which is what some want.

The "fair traders" were given lots of input. They met with Rangel & Levin and their leaders Mike Michaud and freshman Betty Sutton organized several group and individual meetings with Rangel or Levin.

The Ways & Means staff distributed the the details of "the deal" yesterday morning. And stakeholder groups like the AFL or the Chamber all have it. As do Congressional offices. So the details are out there and not so secret.

The Democrats will not cut off funding while our troops are in Iraq - Pelosi said as much this morning on Face the Nation and so did Hoyer on Fox News Sunday. As well as Biden (surprise he's on TV again!) on CNN.

But I think the Democrats will make sure that the ownership of this excalation is sqarely on the Republicans and Bush.

If the goal is to simply allow drug cos to negotiate - that is to strike the language prohibiting it that is in the medicare bill - then I think the Senate and House has a good Dem majority to pass it.

If however, the goal is to institute a Vet Admin drug model which includes price controls and the government setting formularies (telling us which drugs are allowed), that is a nonstarter in the Senate and will raise hell in the House.

Remember VA - little program. Medicare - HUGE program. With lots of seniors that vote!