But this week, the Republicans have forced the Democrats to speak at length, up to a point.

First the Democrats spoke; then, at the commercial break, they left the stage.

Tellingly, few Democrats would clearly take sides today, or even speak for the record.

Democrats then spoke about trying to get a couple of Republicans to switch parties, which would have given them control.

That request was granted, but only two Democrats spoke against the bill before it was enacted 48 to 10.

The Democrats spoke together in a radio address.

And Democrats once spoke strongly in favor of "gun control," until public opinion polls showed the issue was a loser.

We are told the Democrats never speak about issues.

Given the measure's popularity, relatively few Democrats spoke against it unambiguously.

The two Democrats spoke at separate meetings with reporters before the president's news conference tonight.