Who is “they” in “I don’t think they poll tested we won’t negotiate”. By context, it would appear to be the media. The only explanation I can up with is that the “republicans won’t negotiate” message isn’t gaining traction, and as a result, the Republicans are seeing some good polling numbers. Also, later lines indicate that the polling is showing that the “we wanted to defund, but will settle for a delay” approach is resonating.
But the fly in the ointment is the “it’s awful for them to say that”, unless he just means it’s a tactical mistake for them to keep harping on the “won’t negotiate” message. Otherwise, it doesn’t mesh well with the above.
Any other explanations?
See my posts 9 and 17. The RATS are the ones saying ‘We eon’t negotiate’ the Mc says that’s what they are saying in private as well.