"It's time to call in some favors."
"Even if we can only pull a few votes, even if we can only get them to take a bathroom break at a critical moment, that's still a win for us."
Cres was silent for a long time.
"Leo, you're forcing me to use strategic reserves to help you fight a tactical battle."
"Is it worth it?"
"It is."
Leo's reply was decisive.
He started painting a grand picture for Cres.
"Marcus, think about it."
"If this bill passes and drug prices in Pennsylvania really do come down…"
"Whose achievement would that be?"
"Of course, I'll say it was my achievement."
"But I'm still a Democrat."
"My victory is the Party's victory."
"You can package this as a prime example of the Democratic Party's ability to govern. You can tell voters all across America: 'Look, only the Democratic Party can handle the greedy pharmaceutical companies. Only the Democratic Party can make your medicine affordable.'"
"This would be a model."
