Michael Barone on why Congress acting on the Schiavo case "wasn't a cynical ploy":

On the Schiavo issue, most members of Congress, on both sides, were not indifferent but acted on moral convictions in a difficult situation. They were trying to do what they believed was right. They deserve respect, not contempt.

It was bi-partisan.

In the House, enough Democrats returned from recess to provide the necessary quorum, and 46 Democrats voted for the bill, while 53 voted against.

Not exactly the religious zealots or the grandstanding Republicans the media would like you to think.