But the bigger explanation for the persistent strength of the opposition has nothing to do with the merits of the argument or national debate at all.

ECONOMIST: Why is Congress so divided over whether to normalise trade?

While debate between Romney and Gingrich fell into an argument on semantics (was Gingrich a consultant or a lobbyist), the housing market has become one of those sticky issues where Republican fundamentals, including the ideals of small government, clashe with the public interest.

FORBES: Republicans Offer Unpopular Solutions for Housing Fix

Second, it is an argument that rings hollow coming from those who did not even debate the constitutional standards or seek any consensus on what those standards should be.

CNN: Transcript: White House Counsel Ruff's opening statement