The GOP's bad idea  —  “America is more than a country,” begins the GOP's ‘Pledge to America.’ America, it turns out, is an “idea,” an “inspiration,” and a “belief.”  And the GOP wants to govern it.  —  Their policy agenda is detailed and specific — a decision they will almost certainly come to regret.

The Milquetoast GOP “Pledge”  —  I want to like the new GOP Pledge to America.  I want to endorse it, but it's so milquetoast that it proves to me that these guys just aren't ready to lead.  —  In order to prevent a return of the big-spending Republican ways during the Bush years …

Senate Dems Ready To Shelve Tax Cut Vote  —  A senior Senate Democratic aide told TPM today there won't be a vote on extending the Bush tax cuts in the upper chamber before the November election, a blow to party leaders and President Obama who believed this would have been a winning issue.

Two of Obama's closest advisers among those likely to leave in White House shuffle  —  In his nearly two years in office, President Obama has relied on a very small clique of advisers that serves as his most trusted sounding board on politics and policy.  —  Members of his staff describe Obama …