Finally, they're not wimps!

After the election the New York state senate ended up in a precarious situation. The Democrats had a majority, yet 3 new Dem senators threatened to join the GOP caucus, giving them majority status, unless the rest of the Dems agreed not to bring up gay marriage during the new session. That deal was forged -- and has fallen apart. Senator Malcolm Smith, who should become Democratic Majority Leader said:

"We are suspending negotiations, effective immediately, because to do so otherwise would reduce our moral standing and the long-term Senate Democratic commitment to reform and to change. We believe that ultimately, we must do what is right for the people of the State of New York. Furthermore, real reform cannot and should not ever include limiting the civil rights of any New Yorkers. Those issues must be part of the legislative process. The members of this Conference have come a long way to consider the demands placed on the table. But frankly, we would rather wait two more years to take charge of the Senate than to simply serve the interests of the few. New York State cannot afford the type of self-serving politics being proposed and I will not be the leader to sacrifice what is right for New York for a quick political solution."

It is so good to see a Democrat with a spine, willing to stand up for principles, even in the face of personal and political cost. I've missed guys like this.