Quote:

The states are going to have to sit down and talk to people they don't like.



Nothing wrong with talking per se. But there's a big difference between talking and surrendering.

Remember that "carrying a big stick" is just as important as "speaking softly." The Error of the Bush people was to swing the club without doing any talking. The error of the Obamists is to talk without any resolve to use the stick. It's only credible when the other side understands that you're prepared to do either.