Since sndeak and Jmac posted about Senator Specter's switch back to the Democratic Party, I thought I'd add in a few comments myself.

Senator Specter's decision to rejoin the party he left over four decades ago simply reinforces the notion that the Democratic Party is the party of the "Big Tent". While the GOP might have some moderates, and even some liberal leaning Republicans, none of them are as notable or as influential as the moderates and conservatives Democrats that have come back to the party in droves over the past two election cycles. Socially, Specter leans center-left, however, fiscally, Specter will likely join the ranks of economic moderates that make up a good chunk of the Senate Democratic Caucus.

Our party has many different factions that usually keep each other in check, however this is a good thing. I completely disagree with Jmac's assertion that because of Specter's switch "the possibilities for a progressive agenda actually being enacted are endless".  There are other liberal leaning bloggers that are echoing a similar belief. Specter might bring in some liberal votes, but he's a maverick.

I know this is a left leaning blog, but as one of the centrist voices, I certainly do not want to see any far reaching liberal legislation enacted. Instead, I am an advocate of compromise, and while it is impossible to please everyone, the goal should be to do what's best for our centrist country.

Senator Specter's switch allows for a more spirited debate between the various wings of the party, and creates the need to come to agreements on various issues. For example, Sheldon Whitehouse and Ben Nelson might not agree on too much, however, they can work out a compromise much easier than Senate Democrats working out a compromise with the GOP.

Specter's switch simply allows for the moderate wing of the party to continue to grow the voice it lost over the years. The voice which appeals to a majority of Americans. What works in California or New York likely does not play well in Georgia or Virginia. However, moderates like Arlen Specter can help to bring about a compromise that, while not perfect, can appeal to both sides.

The Republican Party has become the party of "no". The Democratic Party is the party of ideas and spirited discussion. Senator Specter's switch simply reinforces this idea.

No, my friends, this is NOT a victory for a progressive agenda, this is a victory for the moderate wing within the Democratic Party.