The President out manuvered them in a speech that many say is long over due!
How serious a problem is it for Democrats? The answer is right here:
By challenging Congress to immediately give the administration authority to try notorious al-Qaeda figures such as Khalid Sheik Mohammed by military commissions, he shifted the argument with Democratic critics of national security policies and competence. As Bush framed the choice, anyone against his proposal would be denying him necessary tools to protect American security.
Will Democrats roll over and pass Bush’s proposals or fight the President’s efforts to bring the “worst of the worst” to justice?
If Democrats go along with the President, their angry base will get even angrier - at them. If Democrats oppose Bush on the prosecution of those responsible for planning the 9/11 attacks they will confirm their reputation of being weak on national security.