The Daily Gist: With Ben Istiphan

Republican Senator Arlen Specter has defected to the Democratic Party. The move isn’t a real surprise, coming from a moderate Republican who was growing very weary of the direction that his party was taking. Not only does this solidify the strength of the Democrats, but it will also mark the milestone known as “60″. 60 seats for the Dems in the Senate simply equates to their stranglehold over the Republicans. If they had the willingness, the Democrats can pass far-left legislation if they wanted to, because the opposition would not be able to filibuster or delay a bill.

On the other hand, Specter’s decision to join the Democrats may have little influence in the creation of progressive reforms. For example, Specter has already stated his opposition towards the Employee Free Choice Act. Maybe he simply feels the need to associate himself with a winner, because these days, being branded a Republican won’t get you anywhere.