IF YOU WENT AGAINST NANCY PELOSI, SHE WOULD TAKE YOUR COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS AWAY FROM YOU.”

@RepKeithSelf points to the Pelosi era as Democrats debate consequences for two members who “broke ranks” and helped Republicans advance a package that included a resolution condemning socialism. Democratic leadership called their move a “significant breach of trust” requiring a “serious response.”

Asked whether party leadership has a history of punishing members who refuse to fall in line, Self didn’t mince words:

“They vote as a herd. Let’s just be honest.”

The bigger question: Are members of Congress there to represent their districts or their party leadership?