Why are Republicans always the ones asked to compromise?

On NPR this afternoon, Meghan McCain (and Michael Black) was discussing her new book. I have not read it, nor read any reviews, but from what I did hear America, You Sexy Bitch: A Love Letter to Freedom was about McCain, a conservative, and Black, a liberal, learning to live with each others political beliefs. The idea is that the average American can have constructive, meaningful conversation with other average Americans of different political leanings. This conversation leads us towards bipartisanship, healing, moving forward, yada yada.

During the show, a caller asked a question that caught my attention: “Why are Republicans always the ones asked to compromise?” Black, the liberal, fielded the question. He talked about how it’s a perception issue. Democrats, when they talk among themselves, see the DNC always rolling over. He then mentioned how Sen. Lindsey Graham recently stepped away from Grover Norquist’s “Taxpayer Protection Pledge.” They went on to talk about other issues in a sort-of-happy, conciliatory tone. I didn’t pay much more attention because I stayed focused on Black’s mention of the Pledge.

Taxpayer Protection Pledge
I, _______________, pledge to the taxpayers of the _____ district 
of the state of__________, and to the American people that I will: 
 ONE, oppose any and all efforts to increase the marginal income tax 
 rates for individuals and/or businesses; and 
 TWO, oppose any net reduction or elimination of deductions and 
 credits, unless matched dollar for dollar by further reducing tax rates.

This pledge was signed by 238 of 242 House Republicans and 41 out of 47 Senate Republicans. That’s over 96.5%, for whomever is counting. Republicans have said, “We are not going to raise taxes. We are not going to compromise.” Meanwhile, Democrats want a blend of tax hikes (or reducing/eliminating credits) and spending cuts.

So, back to the original question. Why are Republicans always the ones asked to compromised? Because they are the party who has taken a pledge refusing to compromise one of the biggest issues facing America. The Democrats have offered numerous compromises. They have extended tax cuts and tried to find other revenue sources. Instead of saying “We refuse to cut any programs ever,” they have tried. Republicans are asked to compromise because they are not compromising.