Even with early public opinion on their side, however, it’s far from certain that the Republican budget bill will be the political winner Democrats hope.

Brian Fitzpatrick, a Pennsylvania Republican who is one of the most moderate in his party, was a surprising 'no' vote against advancing the bill. Unlike other Republicans who have voted 'no' and are now being courted in person by House Republican leaders, Fitzpatrick raced off the floor and away from the chamber after he voted no.