With such a narrow majority in the upcoming House, Kevin McCarthy’s road to the speakership appears possible, if tortured. Several Republicans have already voiced their refusal to vote for him. Whether that’s a negotiating position or a firm stance remains to be seen, but it undeniably complicates matters. Some on the right see McCarthy’s rocky road as a dilemma, but there are others who think it could be an opportunity.

Bill Scher is not on the right. He has, however, taken note of those moderate  Republicans hinting at teaming with moderate Democrats to elect a more middle-of-the-road Speaker. That proposition may be anathema to some and fantastical to others, but it makes for an interesting thought experiment. The Speaker would still be a Republican since the right has the numbers, but pulling moderate Democrats into a coalition would paradoxically allow for legislative progress since the agenda couldn’t be held hostage by the likes of Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Greene. Republicans would be able to show they can negotiate (Americans believe both parties are equally extreme) and govern (shutdowns in 2013 and 2018 damaged their credibility). Additionally, if they teamed with moderate Democrats, blame for the failure to negotiate or govern would be shared. Detractors might argue any credit would be shared, too. If Washington is working, though, wouldn’t that be reason for voters to reward the party in power? As I said, it’s only a thought experiment, but it’s one worth thinking hard about.