Stories such as this one captured by Josh Marshall demonstrate clearly how Democratic Party leaders don’t “get it”. By waiting to take a stand, you cede control of the debate, and likewise the outcome, to the other side. If you have a viewpoint, stand tall and speak it! And if you don’t, find one before the debate begins. There’s nothing wrong with changing your mind, and at the same time, you gain leverage.
Really, this reminds me of a tidbit my boss told me in regards to a few personnel changes on a project I’m helping manage. His words of advice were to define the roles BEFORE the others became involved, as this would guarantee me more control over the process. I see control of the political discourse as no different.
After all, it’s not as though the Republicans have been ceding control while awaiting a specific plan. They’ve been prepping the waters for years on this topic.