Leaders in name only or the real deal?

Regardless of whether you’re a politician in Washington or in Albany, the word “leader” is a big deal. There isn’t a member of Congress or a state legislator who doesn’t aspire to that title. It’s hard to earn, and it’s even harder to keep once you get it. Anyone who tells you that leaders all have the same style knows nothing about politics and the business of survival.

Washington has four big names who hold that title, and none have similar characteristics. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is a typical Far Westerner who takes everything in stride. Reid could be trapped in a burning house and he would slowly and cautiously look to find a way out. No panic. Just a matter-of-fact guy.

Reid’s opposite number, Minority Leader Mitch Mc-Connell, is the most predictable member of Congress. He spouts the party line every time he opens his mouth and has never uttered a memorable phrase in his career. Put him in a room full of Republican senators and he blends in as if they were all mass-produced by one machine.

The speaker of the House, John Boehner, should be a candidate for “Survivor.” He has to deal with dozens and dozens of right-wing zealots who always seem on the verge of mugging him and then back away at the last minute. Boehner hangs on to his job by his fingernails thanks to years of experience and just plain guts. No matter where and when Boehner shows up on television, you can spot his majority leader, Eric Cantor, looking like he’ll attack at any minute.

Cantor became the majority leader because he has the best rapport with the Tea Party caucus and speaks for the rebels who are capable of erupting at any moment. Cantor is a smooth-talking Virginian who doesn’t hide his ambition to be the next speaker. If Boehner and Cantor bunked in the same room, Boehner would have to sleep with one eye open.