TIME FOR THE MODERATES? - AT 9:55 A.M. ET:

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Moderate Democrats in Congress who built their ranks in November's elections are nudging their party's liberal agenda to the center, working to add a pro-business dose of pragmatism to President Barack Obama's plans to rescue homeowners, overhaul health care and revamp energy policy.

With close ties to industry and a keen understanding of how markets work, these Democrats have taken an increasingly influential and visible role in debates over federal spending and housing. They also have powerful allies in the White House. Obama told the House's band of New Democrats during a meeting last week that he considered himself one of them, according to several attendees. His chief of staff, former Rep. Rahm Emanuel, is one of their most prominent alumni.

COMMENT:  Reality always intervenes.  Many of the Dems elected in November are from districts and states that lean conservative.  After all, they were elected by defeating Republicans who'd held those seats.  So, they're going to be careful about going too far to the left.  Their influence, however, is far from clear, despite some victories in changing legislation.  The Obama administration, especially at the mid-level, where policies are carried out, is a virtual Rolodex of left-wing activists.  And they don't have to be reelected.  So the jury is still out on just how "moderate" this administration wants to be.

March 14, 2009