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House Democrats do not want to pass a permanent fix for the FISA law, for a variety of reasons. The law is set to expire tomorrow. Instead of passing a good bill, the Democratic leadership would rather bring contempt charges against former White House aides Harriet Miers and Josh Bolten. It's fine theater, and certainly satisfies the base. Well, the Republicans can do theater, too.

As deputy Republican Whip Eric Cantor explains on his blog:

House Republicans have walked out to protest the Democrats’ refusal to consider senate-passed FISA legislation that would enable America’s intelligence agencies to effectively monitor terrorists who are plotting to attack. While Democrats can’t find time for that, they did find time to debate the merits of specific individuals on the Administration staff. This is an outrage -- our first duty is to protect America. Democrats refuse to take that seriously.

A bit over-the-top? Maybe just a little. The contempt resolutions passed, by the way, despite the Republican walk-out. But that's deliberative democracy in 2008 for you.