There is not, as conventional wisdom seems to indicate, some massive, irreconcilable rift between House and Senate Republicans. "What divides Republicans today is a straightforward tactical question," writes Charles Krauthammer in the Washington Post: "Can you govern from one house of Congress? Should you even try?" Many House Republicans feel compelled to try. But party leaders are beginning to think that's a thankless job, and Krauthammer's starting to agree with them.
"Obama’s post-election arrogance and intransigence can put you in a fighting mood. I sympathize," he writes. But trying to force the agenda from a position of weakness rarely works, and you only end up taking the blame for upsetting markets. He suggests Republicans set more modest goals, blocking what they must but letting the system function. "Don't immolate yourself trying to save liberalism from itself," he advises. "Aren't you failing the country, say the insurgents? Answer: The country chose Obama. He gets four years." Click for his full column. (More Charles Krauthammer stories.)