Now the real fun begins

Nancy Pelosi took the gavel today as the new speaker of the House of Representatives. Now the real work of governing begins.

WASHINGTON - Jubilant Democrats on Thursday elected Rep. Nancy Pelosi (news, bio, voting record) as the first woman speaker of the House, the crowning celebration of newfound power the party won in the November electoral sweep.

"I accept this gavel in the spirit of partnership, not partisanship, and look forward to working with you on behalf of the American people," Pelosi said. "In this House, we may belong to different parties, but we serve one country." (read more)

Though the day was marked by a spirit of compromise and cooperation, expect that to end just as soon as the legislation and debate start flying.

I have to admit, all the talk of compromise - not only today, but also in the President's op-ed piece yesterday - makes me wonder if Republicans are still willing to compromise on conservative principles, just as they've done over the past few years. That would be playing right into Democratic hands, and ensure that we will not soon see a return to power in Congress.

Republicans must remember that voters did not reject the conservative agenda in November, but rather the corruption and compromise of principles that became the hallmarks of the Republican controlled Congress. I know that I mention it often, but Republicans would do well to reflect on what brought them to power in 1994. I don't recall any talk of compromise back then.

For Democrats, they are beginning to reap what they sowed during the campaign. The groups that they pandered to are now demanding action.

Even as they prepared to take control of Congress, Democrats received a brusque reminder that they face pressure from the political left as well as resistance from Republicans.

At one point during the day, Rep. Rahm Emanuel, a member of the Democratic leadership, was addressing reporters when he was loudly interrupted by Cindy Sheehan and other anti-war activists. "De-escalate, investigate, troops home now!" they shouted, while he smiled gamely.

Boy, it sure is nice to see Wacky Cindy shouting at the other side. Check-out the Cindy video over at Hot Air.