Behind the scenes, there seems to be a debate going on about whether House Republicans should allow an open vote on Democratic ethics proposals. There is some fear that some of Pelosi’s proposals will get a majority. I’m not in favor of every proposal that’s been mentioned. But the Republicans’ reluctance suggests that some members aren’t as hungry to win as they are hungry for their next lobbyist-paid dinner. I think Republicans have made a mistake by not pushing for a tough ethics package already. Shutting down the debate whenever they do take up the issue would be a bigger mistake.