Raggio proves why he’s a GOP leader

Bill Raggio

The hard-right brigade within the state Republican Party should — but won’t — take notes from the actions today of Senate Minority Leader William Raggio. The legendary legislator has been kicked around all session by the zealots in his own party, but speaking today Raggio showed them how politics works effectively in the real world.

Raggio simply said his support for tax increases is contingent on substantive reforms of the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). Period.

No histrionics. No threats. Just an agreement to compromise that should, indeed, compel Democrats to do the same.

Compromise, remember that?

That’s how real politics works in the real world. It’s not always pretty, and true believers get their feelings hurt and will be tempted to call names and stamp their feet. But the willingness to compromise doesn’t make Raggio irresponsible or liberal or a closet commie. It makes him a political realist.

The right-wing nut crowd should take lessons from the master. Nevada would be a better place.