Abstract

Models of Opposition

The author comments on the outlook for the Democratic Party to become an opposition party and for George W. Bush's second term. The delaying of the Condoleezza Rice and Alberto Gonzales confirmations represents only a minor revolt. These actions--coming as they did after Barbara Boxer's lone stand in the Senate against accepting Ohio's electors because of allegations of widespread irregularities, and Senate Foreign Relations Committee votes by Boxer and John Kerry against Rice--outraged the Republicans. But we hope the delays are a sign of more important revolts to come. Opposition that is both aggressive and substantive will be essential in preventing the packing of courts with foes of abortion rights, the filling of regulatory positions such as the chairmanship of the FCC with acolytes of the industries they're supposed to constrain, the destruction of Social Security and Medicare, and further military disasters. Some Democrats understand the job of an opposition party. Among them are the new Democratic Senate whip, Illinoian Dick Durbin and Congressman Henry Waxman of California, both of whom recognize that the rules by which Congress, particularly the Senate, governs itself were designed to allow an opposition party with substantial popular support to delay and even defeat the will of a President and his party. The point, as Durbin and Waxman know, is not to obstruct but to oppose; the American people will recognize the difference. If Democrats get the hang of their opposition role, George Bush's Inaugural Day disappointments will be only the beginning of a frustrating second term.