The GOP is factionalizing, with the conservative base backing the Cruz-Lee strategy to defund Obamacare, and the GOP establishment attacking it directly but mostly indirectly. It is a remarkable moment, crystallizing the long-simmering revolt against the leadership for its failure to fight on the principles the base cares about passionately. They seek a champion, and Ted Cruz grabbed what he saw as the opportunity to spearhead the opposition to Obamacare, a new program which the public also dislikes and fears. By mobilizing the base, Cruz was able to overcome the resistance of Speaker Boehner, pillar of the GOP establishment and widely disliked by the base, and get the House to pass a continuing resolution defunding Obamacare while funding the rest of the government. Harry Reid is expected to restore Obamacare funding and send the bill back to the House, putting the ball in their court. Senators Cruz and Lee want their colleagues to filibuster consideration of the House bill -- the...(Read Full Post)