Who does Congress hold in contempt?

Interesting question: why do Harry Reid and other Democrats who are actively demanding that the country cave in to Bush on telecom immunity for things they did several years ago demonstrate such utter contempt for the Democrats who are most committed to supporting the party and its candidates? For those who have the most respect for the checks-and-balances under the Constitution that we were all taught in 6th Grade are so important -- i.e., for the authority of Congress?

They are so ready to hold committed Democrats in contempt, dismissing them as the rabid "base," but cannot muster the fortitude to do it with people who simply blow off their subpoenas.

The “Village” in action, as they say.