Lange’s Meltdown

Rep. Mike Lange’s tirade is well covered elsewhere, I’m sure. I’ll throw in my two cents, for what they are worth.

I always look for deeper meaning, often finding it even when it is not there. I tried to understand Lange’s frustration, but had to conclude that the man was simply in over his head. He doesn’t understand the art of partisan craftmanship, and has a vile temper to boot. He melted down. The Republicans, when looking for leaders, need to keep on looking and overlook Lange, who is apparently not qualified.

But a majority of Republicans in that room applauded. That is stunning. I would think that the House of Representatives is made up of gentlemen and women, and that most of them know that the art of politics is being agreeable with people with whom they disagree. There’s no sin in polite words, no backing down in being civil.

And, now and then, when the cards are dealt out evenly, there needs to be compromise. Gov. Schweitzer apparently understands this, though no doubt he’s a shrewd horse trader. Lange didn’t get it at all. He thinks with control of but one body in Helena, he can have it all.

The applause reminded me of something Paul Krugman has said (cue deeper meaning) – our modern Republicans are not traditional politicians. These folks don’t believe in cordiality or compromise. They are radical revolutionary reactionaries, and expect the win every battle, or die trying. They refuse to compromise, as they are so fervent and extreme in their beliefs that even a slight nod to the opposition is considered treason. Civility is weakness.

Lange’s outdated references to Democrats negotiating like “communist Russia” and “Red China” are revealing. Many on the right are still angry about Vietnam and a long paranoid list of other commie causes – Joe McCarthy lives. Republicans of Lange’s ilk embody an historic memory of a long festering anger – it runs deep within them. They are seething. The resentment that lives within them needs a focal point for its anger. Replace the word “terrorist” with “communist” and we are back in Joe’s time again. Nothing changes!

(Uncue deeper meaning.)

Democrats, old school and polite, are often trampled under in this process. The six years in Washington prior to the 2006 elections witnessed extremes of partisanship and cynical maneuvering. Republicans stomped on the rights of the minority, negotiating and passing bills without even a nod to the opposition. Democrats, now somewhat back in power, have reverted to cordial form, have tried to restore order and civility, and deserve respect. If they can do this and not yield on principle, then they will honor to the political profession.

Lange and that ugly group who applauded him yesterday are not politicians in any sense of the word – they are petty bickerers and street fighters. That outburst, that applause was dishonorable. These are hacks.

I say that with respect.