Second, Democrats believe the Rangel scandal isn’t really hurting them all that badly back in their home districts. Some House Democrats think the media are overplaying the possible national implications of the case.

“I am not aware of anyone who is going to lose their election over this,” said one senior Democrat. “Until it becomes a problem for other members, they will stick with Charlie.”

And finally, in spite of the sordid nature of some of the Rangel allegations, the Statement of Alleged Violation released by a four-member investigative subcommittee Thursday, didn’t contain any new blockbusters. Members have been hearing about Rangel’s ethics problems for two years, so the actual list of ethics charges had less impact because there were no surprises.

“This is a sad, individual tragedy,” said one junior Democrat in a swing district. “But despite what the media is saying, this is not playing nationally, and there’s no sign it will.”