As you probably know, Rep. Jack Murtha is trying to tie new funding for the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to a set of requirements: equipment and training standards, time off standards, no more stop-loss programs, no more extended tours, etc.

The conservative Blue Dog Democrats in the House are worried about this. They worry about encroaching on the Commander in Chief’s powers in a time of war. They worry about dictating military strategy. They worry about balance of powers. Oh how their brows furrow with worry.

Only through intense soul-searching — and $4 billion in ag subsidies — did they find support for the measure in their hearts.

(via The Plank)