We reported yesterday (and weeks ago) on Congressman Mike Ross’ vote on an environmental bill that he claims doesn’t do enough for south Arkansas.

It is a bill that incorporates many aspects of President Barack Obama’s environmental agenda.  Ross’ defection as a Democrat on the vote underscores his allegiance to his district’s business interests and cultural roots: timber and agriculture.

It also highlights a growing story that you knew would ultimately surface in Washington, D.C. – how will Obama and rural Democrats find common ground?

Politico.com examines the issue today and strikes at the core of the matter.

Angered by White House decisions on everything from greenhouse gases to car dealerships, congressional Democrats from rural districts are threatening to revolt against parts of President Barack Obama’s ambitious first-year agenda.

“They don’t get rural America,” said Rep. Dennis Cardoza, a Democrat who represents California’s agriculture-rich Central Valley. “They form their views of the world in large cities.”

It is the central issue that Republicans are hoping will play out perfectly as Sen. Blanche Lincoln runs for re-election next year.  They are hoping she’ll cast votes that will portray her as loyal to Obama versus Arkansas’ rural, conservative culture.

Lincoln and Sen. Mark Pryor are mentioned in the Politico story as pivotal Senate members for Obama’s agenda, particularly on health care reform.  Lincoln says she’d like to see Obama “out in rural America more.”  

Click here to access the full article.