Here is what I would say to President Bush if I were Nancy Pelosi:
Mr President, you have 199 Republican members of Congress. Your Administration wants this bill. In the spirit of bi-partisan support, we, Democrats, are willing to join you in doing what is best for the country.
However, the Republican leadership needs to bring Republican legislators fully on board this program. We will provide the marginal votes to pass your bill.
You have our commitment of support. We need your commitment for at least 180 votes on the Republican side.
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If Democrats were smart, they would let the Republican take ownership of this bill. And pay the political price in November.
Homeowner who are making their mortgage payments on time should be outraged by this bill. Others have gambled, cashed out, are are now long gone. And now, hard-working, play-by-the rules Americans have to bail-out Wall Street?
The bailout simply doesn’t make sense to the average American.