But in recent months, the administration has begun to soften its opposition to diplomatic contacts, particularly over Iraq.
In the 1960s, Rivers softened his vocal opposition to civil rights legislation.
That deal helped soften the Senators' opposition to a nearby competitor for their fan base.
In today's hearing, there was no sign that he was softening his opposition.
Tonight German officials appeared to be softening their opposition to a mark revaluation, however.
Would 9/11 and the ensuing anthrax attacks soften the administration's opposition?
A similar measure was passed several years later, after gun groups softened their opposition.
But he recently appeared to soften his longtime opposition to Georgia's death penalty.
But he did not soften his opposition to American plans for a national missile defense.
Most environmental groups have not softened their opposition, however.