Chris Matthews Destroys the "Maverick" Brand

Check out this clip of Chris Matthews over at Americablog. Others have complained that in this clip Chris calls the Republicans "mavericks" and thus gives them some credit for crushing the bailout bill. In fact, he's doing just the opposite. He is simply turning the phrase inside out and revealing its essential uselessness and vapidity in a political context. He says up front that you can call them the "party of mavericks"--and they can call themselves that--but mavericks can't be led, and can't lead. He lays it all at the feet of John McCain and explains to the rather moronic talking dress who is interviewing him that the Republicans had an obligation to get the votes for the bill and the fact that they didn't is a failure of their leadership and a failure of McCain's leadership. And he puts it just that bluntly--McCain can't lead, this was his test, and he flunked it. Its well worth seeing.

aimai