I've been thinking about this, and finally realized (I'm no genius when it comes to statistics) that some centrist Dems figure it's better to take one vote away from the Repukes while adding one to the Dem column, than to woo one Dem non-voter (or Green voter, e.g.). It's a net gain of two as opposed to one. So they'd rather go the Republican Lite route, thinking it's a better way to bolster their chances.

I have a couple of problems with this. First of all, of course, it's dishonest to turn your back on the principles your party supposedly stands for. But even aside from that, it's not practical. Because for every moderate or disaffected Repuke voter you attract by being an anti-abortion, pro-war, anti-labor pseudo-Democrat, you repulse a Democratic or potential Democratic voter.

And that just doesn't add up.