Being Olympia Snowe II

Olympia Snowe is one of my congressional heroes for her moderate and intelligent voice. I have written of her here before. This morning I was particularly struck by her op-ed article in the New York Times with regards to Arlene Spector's defection to the Democratic Party.

Snowe writes:

It is true that being a Republican moderate sometimes feels like being a cast member of “Survivor” — you are presented with multiple challenges, and you often get the distinct feeling that you’re no longer welcome in the tribe. But it is truly a dangerous signal that a Republican senator of nearly three decades no longer felt able to remain in the party.

"Senator Specter indicated that his decision was based on the political situation in Pennsylvania, where he faced a tough primary battle. In my view, the political environment that has made it inhospitable for a moderate Republican in Pennsylvania is a microcosm of a deeper, more pervasive problem that places our party in jeopardy nationwide.

Do read the entire article above. It's well worth it.

Being Olympia Snowe

When women are in the Senate, I usually listen very carefully. While not always being impressed by them, Republicans and Democrats, I have always appreciated Senator Snowe. On this blog I have even asked why she was not the Republican VP choice. She is smart, sharp, bipartisan, and focused.

These are the kind of words and actions that have been impressive. Regarding being in support of the stimulus package, she writes:

"The catalogue of arguments in the Senate have spanned the gamut – from those who believed this bill initially was about the right size and the right balance to those who thought it was far too expensive, providing too little bang for the proverbial buck," Senator Snowe said. "However, through true consensus building, the Senate has rightly been engaged in a vigorous and healthy debate to arrive at this monumental compromise."

She adds:

"Throughout our deliberations this week in the Senate, I have consistently advocated for a package that will truly stimulate this economy, not an omnibus bill bloated with frivolous spending" Senator Snowe continued. "We must be vigilant to ensure this is the right package that will address the urgency of our economic crisis and achieve credibility with the American people."