Just two observations:
1. The turncoats, who backed out, didn’t do so to protect committee assignments alone. No, their reelection is even more valuable than that.
Boner only had to threaten their would be no help and maybe outright opposition from RNCC, Rove, et al.
That means:
No money or money working against you.
No advisors and putting you on an island with no support, logistics and deep ties in local races that would be instrumental in their continued seat.
Putting up candidates to directly weaken you next time around.
2nd
Ahhh, I forgot what my second point was.
Damnit.
Great observation Laz.
Your first point was better than your second one. :)