From Deseret News archives:
Are Blue Dogs a solution or part of larger problem?
Geographically distributed from Maine to Hawaii, 35 Democratic congressmen/women meet every Wednesday morning as Blue Dog Democrats to develop moderate and pragmatic solutions to national problems. More importantly, Blue Dogs build the necessary alliances with Republicans to impact legislation. They are not the Clintonian-flavored "New Democrats" (liberal on social issues/centrist on economic matters) but are conservative on fiscal affairs and most maintain anti-gun control, pro-defense and pro-life voting records. Although there are differences (i.e., labor and free-trade issues), the Blue Dogs stick together. "We are the most cohesive caucus in Congress today," observes Matheson. Consequently, the Blue Dogs are often the swing votes on important legislative items and can mediate compromises between the political extremes.
Political pundits have noticed this emergence of power.
Left-wing groups are worried about the Blue Dog influence. Web sites and PACs have been established with the sole purpose to defeat these "problem children" Democrats in primary elections. Obviously, the Blue Dogs are a constant source of irritation to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. However, she still courts the mavericks because she needs their votes and campaign assistance. The Blue Dog PAC raises over $1 million every election cycle to help compatriots.
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