Even More on the Democrats' Statement

From the illustrious Catholic News Service:
Democrats' statement said to arise from politicians' frustration

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- A new "statement of principles" signed by a majority of the Catholic Democrats in the House of Representatives arose from the politicians' frustration at "the way the church used the holy Eucharist as a political weapon against some elected officials" during the 2004 elections, according to one of the signers.

Political weapon? Perhaps they would prefer the Church's medicinal treatment for their "illness" - excommunication? But again, I digress. Let's continue and read something even more revealing:

Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., told Catholic News Service in a March 1 telephone interview that the statement was the product of "many, many meetings" among the House Democrats themselves and with others, including Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick of Washington, who heads the U.S. bishops' Task Force on Catholic Bishops and Politicians. (my emphasis)

Coaching from the sidelines? Calling them to repentance and conversion? Asking them to open their minds and hearts to the fullness of the Catholic faith? Perhaps these "Catholic" congresscritters are helping him with his long anticipated "Task Force" report - kind of a "quid pro quo" deal?

CNS article