It is frustrating to be on their team. Blackmail and certainly other more gentle forms of coercion are possibilities.
IMO it includes the leadership of the party - see Joe Wilson (R) being forced to apologize for doing what his voters expected by yelling out and challenging O's significant lie - and the desire to not burn bridges but to go along to get along - see Newt sitting on the couch with Pelosi, Bush praising and hugging her. See Boner...
The sense during my lifetime is that the party, at least at the leadership level, wishes to be perceived as responsible gentlemen. Many of us who have seen much of the rest of the world know that style is not always possible or advisable.
Amen. Excellent post. I heartily agree.