John Nichols: Alan Grayson Versus The Whiner

[babylonsister]

http://www.thenation.com/blog/155514/alan-grayson-versus-whiner

Alan Grayson Versus The Whiner
John Nichols
October 21, 2010


No doubt about it, Florida Congressman Alan Grayson is a boisterous and intense political player.

He is an unapologetic liberal who says things that make headlines, stir debate and upset Republicans.

In that sense, he is a lot like the Tea Party conservatives. But there is one big difference.

Grayson—who famously suggested that the Republican plan for healthcare reform was "don't get sick and if you do get sick, die quickly"—is proud of his positions, more than ready to defend them and open to debate.

In contrast, Grayson's Republican challenger this year, Dan Webster, is more than willing to call Grayson names. But he will not defend his statements or debate Grayson.

snip//

But what happens if Webster gets elected to the House and the debate on Capitol Hill gets heated—as it frequently does? What happens if another member of Congress says something Webster does not like?

Will he refuse to debate? Will he refuse to attend sessions dealing with major issues where passions are high and the charges and counter-charges fly? How far is Webster going to take this search for decorum?

Will he serve as US Rep. Dan Webster, R-Florida?

Will it be US Rep. Dan Webster, R-Whiner?

Or will voters decide that they would prefer to be represented by a congressman who is ready to state his views, defend his positions and join the great debate?