Today's Helpful Thoughts for Democrats from Greg Sargent

Greg Sargent:

* But let's cut through the B.S.: How much will action on energy and even unemployment matter if the economy remains in the tank, which looks more likely now that Dems are giving up on more stimulus spending?

* And absent such action, why would Dems get enthusiastic about this fall, no matter how many times Robert Gibbs warns that there's "no doubt" that the GOP could take the House?

* While we're at it: Wouldn't voters like it if Dems continued pushing for big action on the economy, even if there's no chance of success, rather than throwing in the towel in advance, which accomplishes nothing?

Howie P.S.: The Dems seem to believe there's no point in "playing" each game if you don't have a good chance of winning. Is politics like the World Cup or is it more like a long battle where there are benefits to be gained from "suiting up every day"? If you hate sports analogies, feel free to suggest your own.