Sometimes, Manchin and Sinema sound like … Trump.
They’re using a favorite Trump tactic.
The chorus of “What does he want?” and “What does she want?” from Progressives, and other Moderates, struck an unexpected chord.
Remember the cries of frustration from Republican leadership when the Big Liar would endlessly play both sides of an issue, demanding the final say and then withholding it? Instead, he would force someone else to decide, secure in the knowledge that he could praise or abominate according to his whim. The uncertainty and terror that this produced was the point.
It’s totally an unfair comparison.
Trump’s refusal to cooperate is intentional — simply a manipulation to frustrate, assert control, and get attention. Normal people do it to gain time to make a decision.
Still, they risk looking like Trump — like someone who’s never really negotiating.
I’m not sure this is a good look for them.