I can’t suss out Harry Reid’s game plan on filibuster reform. He understandably would like to work out a deal with Mitch McConnell to streamline Senate procedure without having to use the so-called nuclear option of changing the rules with a mere majority of the votes. But he isn’t playing hardball. His threat isn’t much different from what he is trying to negotiate. Perhaps the explanation is that he has pushback from his own caucus, but I can’t figure out his negotiating strategy.
I think it is important that he not go nuclear unless he’s prepared to get the maximum advantage out of it. And, if he cuts a deal, he should cut a deal at least as good as the one Carl Levin and John McCain have been discussing.
