If all the Dems together can't do it on straight vote, which is a given, the only other option is to filibuster. If the Repubs want to change the rules of the senate, make them do it publically rather than allow them to bully and intimidate based on threat alone. In other words, if you're going to go down, go down swinging, and make sure the other folks in the fight leave with marks on them. It's a matter of principle, and the above failed.