“I decided today is the day I’m going to do this, simple as that,” John Boehner said at a Capitol Hill press conference. After meeting with the Pope in his historic visit speaking to the US Congress the preceding day, Boehner said his decision came after a night of sleep and prayers.
“It’s become clear to me that this prolonged leadership turmoil would do irreparable harm to the institution,” Boehner told reporters. “This isn’t about me. It’s about the people, it’s about the institution.”
As soon as he made his historic announcement people from all political persuasions began to characterize his choice in ways that seemed to suit their agenda. Those on the far right of the Republican party characterized his resignation as a win for their agenda although I don’t personally think that is true.
Democrats have stated that they believe that they will have a better chance in the upcoming elections with turmoil in the Republican ranks between moderate Republican who need consensus to win and those on the right who wish to push an ultra conservative agenda.
Boehner seemed at peace as he made his announcement since he was ready to leave the turmoil. Congrats Mr. Boehner and a move well played.
The Ethics vs Weakness Question
So was Boehner’s move one of taking the ethical high road or one of weakness? Had Boehner stayed I believe the following would be true: (1) the Republican’s would have had tremendous infighting about funding (defunding) Planned Parenthood; (2) there would have been some willing to shut down the government over something that in the big scheme of things for our country is quite insignificant; and (3) the fight would have further divided the Republican Party making it harder to win in a general election.
So…I’m taking the position that Boehner’s move took the ethical high road!
Why? First, by resigning he was no longer under pressure to cow to the demands of the radical far right of the party – that faction of the Republican party that has been willing to divide the country over issues that most American’s don’t find of interest. As a result, Boehner will not introduce legislation to defund Planned Parenthood – far right loses!
Second, without the pressure of needing to keep his position Boehner can make sure the funding bill needed to keep the government in business moves through the house knowing that he can solicit and get the support of Democrats.
The outcome of both is that the government can continue with the business of governing without being held hostage to a a few radical members of a party that can’t win a presidential election.
In my view Ethical Wins!
YOUR COMMENTS ARE WELCOME!
