Friday, April 3, 2009
Simulation Coverage--Day 4
For all video coverage of the Congress Simulation, see the Claremont Beat TV YouTube channel.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Senate Recess Indefinitely...to Sunday night?
All Bills Passed...
PRECEDE Act
GROW US Act
Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act of 2009
Water Resources Improvement Act
HOPE for America's Veterans Act of 2009
Most senators demonstrated their desire to leave as soon as possible.
For tonight's session, the only bill that did not pass was the President's Resolution Authority Act.
Democrats Leave Delegation; Offer Sim God Beer
After moving to adjourn several times, Senator Cardin stated, "If you want to spend your Thursday night in here, I feel sorry for you." Following her lead, the Administration stated, "We can only get in trouble from here..." From there, the majority of, well, the majority, proceeded to walk out. They made it clear they had better places to be.
Obama Pardons Blago
Before leaving on his motorcade surround by his secret service, President Obama issued a number of pardons. One of those pardons included disgraced Governor Blagojevich (D-IL). While this was a controversial pardon, it was not announced until 30 minutes after the President had left the building. Looks like the President of the Senate is unsure of his docket.
Democratic Side of the Floor Looking Empty
The majority of the Democratic caucus dramatically left the Senate floor after numerous calls for adjournment. Majority Leader Schumer ignored his party's request, siding with the Republicans to remain in session.
The walkout has left the Democrats lacking working control of the Senate giving Republicans advantage to push through their agenda.
According to Senate rules, the Senate can continue to vote on legislation so long as at least one member of the minority party is present.
3 Dems' Houses to be Replaced by Fed Detention Centers
(2) the locations of the first three centers to be constructed shall be as follows and the boundaries of such facilities shall extendequally in all directions:
(i) (35.468455,-114.916932)
(ii) (39.3916947,-76.716842)
(iii) (41.9585339,-87.67223059)
But why these specific locations? I caught up with Senator Inhofeto get the scoop. His only comment: "The coordinates for the first three prisons refer directly to the coordinates of Reid, Cardin, and Emmanuel's houses." Watch out for those bulldozers, Dems!
From Senator Grassley, Passed Through House to Press Gallary
President Observes Senate Floor, Brings New Puppy
Democratic Senators call for adjournment, unsatisfied with Schumer's authority
The motion was rejected multiple times as Republican Senator McConnell and Senator Schumer insisted the time yielded to Senator Cardin, who motioned for the adjournment, was out of order.
The Democrats were angered by their Majority Leader's decision to overrule his caucus. Senator Lautenberg called Schumer "the worst Majority Leader ever."
Although Vice President Joe Biden attempted to recognize Senator Cardin's motion, Schumer and numerous Republicans asserted that the Senate's Unanimous Consent Agreement gave all caucus power to their respective party leaders.
The senate voted to overrule Biden and continue with proceedings.
Schumer asked his unsatisfied caucus to appeal to the president to sign more legislation. Schumer retorted, saying that the Senators have worked hard on the bills presented and that the Senate will see them through to completion.
Democrats frustrated with the decision of the Senate were seen pacing back and forth. Floor debate continues.
The KIDNAP BOXER Act
The voting split upon party lines and Senator Boxer was guaranteed her safety: with the nays winning 11-17.
For clarification: Obama brought his puppy to the session with him.
Simulation is Officially Over, Will Continue Until Adjournment
President Obama just entered the chamber and delivered his closing statement along with presenting the signed PPA Act to the Vice President. Obama's signature on a Finance Committee bill (after signing an EPW bill) officially end the simulation but, for formality's sake (and some academic grading), the Senate can continue passing out bills until they adjourn.
President Waits Outside, Signed Bill in Hand
The administration attempted to end floor debate on the SHOP Act to announce the passage of PPA, but Senator McConnell refused to end debate, citing Senate rules.
The session will continue, and the President will wait, until the SHOP Act is voted on.
When President Obama is allowed to enter and speak, the 111th Congress simulation will officially close. For formality sake, the Senate will continue until formally adjourned.
Freedom Act Passes the Senate
Senator Inhofe countered, thanking Senator Boxer and the EPW committee. Inhofe proposed support for the bill and yielded her time to Senator Bond.
Senator Bond drew attention to section four which promotes research in hybrid technologies, especially focusing upon her experience at a recent celebration at the Ford Motors production facilities marking the production of the 100,000th hybrid vehicle made by Ford.
Senator Alexander applauded the Freedom Act's incentives for renewable energy, citing that it was in the best interest of the American people. He responded to Senator Boxer's concerns regarding nuclear power, saying that the bill does nothing to make nuclear power more dangerous or more vulnerable to attacks. Rather, the Freedom Act encourages the production of safer, cleaner and more efficient types of energy.
Senator Bingaman supported the bill saying that the "United States needs it right now."
Roll Call voting commenced, passing 28-2. The nays came from Senator Cornyn and Senator Kyl.
After the bill passed, Senator Kyl and Cornyn made motion to recommit. They voiced their concerns with the legislation citing that in a time of economic crisis it is not in the country's best interest to throw money at a number of different initiatives.
Democratic supporters of the bill pointed out that this bill took a great deal of time to come out of committee and that the deliberation had yielded the best and most bipartisan legislation possible.
Senator Specter and Inhofe pleaded that the Senate vote against the motion to recommit, as the bill is both bipartisan and in the interest of the United States
Roll Call Voting commenced on the consideration to recommit to committee and the motion was denied 2-30.
President has Signed PPA!
Congressional Calendar Coming to a Close
"I raise question with the true intentions of Majority Leader Senator Schumer. I implore the Republican Party to reconsider the leadership of Senator McConnell for any hope of future support. The actions exhibited in tonight's senate is not reflective of the change Americans have asked for" says President Obama.
"Members of the Democratic caucus unwillingly to work with the President can be assured of disappointing their constituency," adds Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel.
Obama is currently walking out the door to deliver his decision on the Physician Payments Accountability Act of 2009 that will conclude the current congressional calendar.
The President Returns
Amendments to the Unanimous Consent Agreement
The administration promised that no more antics would occur, provided that this concession held for the rest of the session.
Unfortunately, the Resolution Authority did not pass the Senate, falling by a margin of 17-15.
Democrats Attempt Caucus, Party Dissention
Senator John Kerry told Senator Lautenberg that he would not get the necessary votes to remove Schumer. He further stated that he was "not going to take out Schumer."
A handful of senators then questioned Kerry's loyalties to the Democratic party,and Lautenberg asked Kerry, "Are you acting as a CMC student, or as your senator?"
Before these allegations could be addressed by Kerry, the press was asked to leave the area by Senator Lautenberg.
McConnell, Schumer Attempt to Adjourn; Overruled by Sim Gods
Senator McConnell declares the simulation rules state that only one bill must be signed by the President before session of Congress can be adjourned as long as the Minority and Majority leader agree. Since CEPA has been signed by the President, McConnell and Schumer declared this session of Congress is adjourned.
Obama Appears, Geithner Shoved by Obama
Upon exiting the room, Obama was chased by both Majority and Minority Leaders. When McConnell was blocked by Secretary Geithner, he shoved him out of the way in pursuit of the President.
Press is speculating that deal to place Senator Schumer as majority leader may have had something to do with a speedy resolution to end the simulation.
President Alive and Well
Senate Floor in Chaos
Senator Bond Fails on Diet
Senator Vitter summed up the feelings of many of Senator Bond's constituents: "you were doing so well!" Her disappointment came upon seeing Senator Bond gorging herself on a Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia Ice cream Bar and a large bag of Guacamole chips.
Readers may recall that this writer wrote a moving character piece describing Senator Bond's inspiring diet just days ago. I stand alongside Senator Vitter when I implore Senator Bond to get back on track and rededicate herself to her diet.
President Has Not Been Elusive to the Press
President Barack Obama is nowhere to be found. The Senate has erupted into disorder as they wait for Obama’s approval on current legislation. Earlier today Obama granted the Claremont Beat an exclusive interview.
Obama takes office with a Democratic majority and a mandate from voters to change, but he has also faced an obstinate Republican party. Obama acknowledged that new dynamics create friction at the beginnings of every Congress but predicts that we will see more progress in upcoming weeks. Obama claims“Americans can look forward to more change.”
Obama also recognizes the necessity in reaching across the aisle. “Bi-partisanship is the linchpin to effective government…. I believe that in sensitive times like the present, strength and unity is what Americans are looking for.” He disagrees with comments regarding the Democratic leadership’s allegedly tyrannical actions and attempts to stifle debate in Committee but says he does not believe that this should be taken personally. He goes on to say that that germane amendments like Chuck Norris Amendment serve little purpose to today’s serious problems.
President Obama looks to the future telling us how excited his family is for the new puppy and hopes “Our new puppy enjoy 5:30 am jogs!” And what about the President’s thoughts for 2012? He does not feel he can rest; “There is still much to be done.”
Republicans Move to Impeach President
Obama Demands the PPA on his Desk Before He Signs Current Bill
President Barack Obama is nowhere to be found in the midst of the President’s needed approval of the Resolution Authority for Systematically Significant Financial Companies Act of 2009.
Obama released an official statement: "I am saddened by the deadlock on the Senate floor...Before I enact any more legislation The Resolution Authority must be next to the PPA on my desk."
Senator Lamar Alexander's accent questionable, admits possible confederate sympathies
During a public breakfast, Alexander was overheard using a more mainstream accent. Analysts of his new accent have attributed it to Maryland, not Alexander's home state of Tennessee.
When asked to comment on the discrepancy, Alexander explained that he had a cold.
"I recently have had an unfortunate cold...that makes my southern charm vanish," said Alexander. "I begin to sound like one of those Yankees."
Alexander backtracked on his statement, asserting he does not support the Confederacy despite his comment.
"I have no hatred or mal-feelings towards anyone in the north. I just think that those from the south have a more beautiful accent," said Alexander.
Senator Harry Reid Taking Full Advantage of New Role
Former Majority Leader Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) appears to be enjoying his new role as just another member of the Senate. While scandal and aggressive debate broke out between The Obama Administration's Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senator Reid was found working diligently on his Arabic homework. Way to use the time effectively!
McConnell Takes Issue with Position of Sergeant at Arms
Other Senators were troubled by the Sergeant at Arms. Specifically, Senator Jon Kyl mentioned that he felt that the Sergeant at Arms was "threatening Senators." Kit Bond remarked that as she was leaving the floor with Senator Bingaman the Sergeant at Arms asked her "are you sure you want to do that."
Even former President George W. Bush got in on the topic stating, "We've been informed that there is a necessity for a sergeant at arms and that the safety of the Senate is in jeopardy."
Positions Payment Accountability Act Passes With All But Specter
CEPA Passes the Senate
The CEPA Act was put before the 111th Session of Senate today. CEPA was expected to be a controversial bill, requiring bipartisan support to avoid the threat of a filibuster.
Senator Boxer, Chairwoman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, began debate speaking of the importance of the bill.
Senator Alexander rebutted Senator Inhofe's comments saying that he may be one of the most conservative men out there, but that he believes in the reality of climate change and noted that CEPA was good legislation and had been deliberated upon by a bipartisan committee. He asked his colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote "yay" on the bill as it had the possibility to help the ailing United States' economy.
Senator Specter then spoke in defense and support of his bill, especially thanking Chairwoman Boxer and the Environment and Public Works Committee. Specter drew specific attention to the cap-and-trade legislation in the bill, remarking that the cap-and-trade program would wean communities in America off our dangerous addiction to foreign oil.
The bill passed through the senate via roll-call vote with a margin of 19-13.
Senators Begin by Sitting on Wrong Sides of the Aisle
Floor Session Opens with Prayer
GOP Ready for Floor Session
Senator John Cornyn of Texas spoke to the GOP attendants, acknowledging the hard work his party put into the 111th Congressional session. Cornyn gave special thanks to minority leader Senator Mitch McConnell and ranking committee members Senator James Inhofe and Senator Grassley.
“The work done to see responsible legislation passed in this Congress is of the utmost importance to the American people and the NRSC is glad to have such steady hands at the helm of a boat that has been in rocky seas over the recent months,” said Cornyn.
The NRSC also acknowledged Dontrelle Kushali Goldstein, a small business owner in Texas and lifelong Republican. Cornyn thanked Goldstein for his “support of the Republican Party in its effort to keep America free and capitalism alive.”
Republican’s remained lighthearted at the dinner despite the very real possibility that Democrats will overpower the minority in Senate votes. The group joked about the “terrorist fist jabs” of President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle.
Cornyn stressed the GOP’s responsibility to keep the ideals of citizens like Goldstein in mind during the Senate floor debate this evening.
Republican Minority Dominates Finance Committee Agenda
NRSC Dinner Now at Collins
A Lunchtime Discussion with the Minority Leader
What Has Been Reported to the Floor?
Finance:
- Physician Payments Accountability (PPA) Act of 2009
- Resolution Authority for Systematically Significant Financial Companies Act of 2009
- Small-business Health Options Program (SHOP) Act of 2009
- Hospital Operating Procedure Enhancement for America’s Veterans (HOPE for America’s Veterans) Act of 2009
- Climate and Energy Protection Act (CEPA) of 2009
- Free Resource and Energy Exercise Defining Our Moment (FREEDOM) Act of 2009
- Pressing Return of the Environment and Costal Conservation Experience that is Dangerously near Expenditure (PRECEDE) Act
- Generating the Requisite Opportunities for Work in the United States (GROW US) Act of 2009
- Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act of 2009
- Water Resources Improvement Act
- Safe and Efficient Transportation Act of 2009
NRSC Chairman Cornyn Holds Event Before Floor Session
Schumer Reports "Assurances" SHOP and CEPA Will Pass, Needs Votes from Specter and Snowe
EXCLUSIVE: Interview with Sen. Schumer on assuming Majority Leader status
I caught up with Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) a few hours ago, who in a surprising mid-session turn, assumed the status of Senate Majority Leader Wednesday evening.
Schumer opened with a desire to "commend Sen. Reid for his great work as Majority Leader for the last two years."
The Senator from New York pledged that he will "work in a bipartisan manner to get things done." He affirmed that he would do his best to "ensure that the Environmental and Public Works Committee functions and that there are no more walkouts."
There have been none since Schumer's assumption of the role.
Schumer established that he plans on "pushing the American peoples' agenda." Foremost in the agenda, according to the Senator, were the implementation of a cap and trade program and expansion of health care coverage.
Asked about the possibility that his plans fail, Schumer remarked: "The American people will be aghast if Republicans stonewall this much-needed legislation. Tackling these issues was the mandate for government in the 2008 elections."
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN): "Down with the commies!"
At approximately 2215 hours Wednesday evening, while the EPW committee was in session, Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) was spotted on G-Chat with a status memo that read: "Down with the commies!"
Klobuchar did not comment on the matter.
EPW Committee Chair Barbara Boxer (D-CA), asked about her fellow Democrat, remarked: "I don't mind what Senator Klobuchar does on her own time just so long as she's productive in committee."
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Obama Surprised, Not Distressed
While Obama was declining questions from the press, he was meeting with Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY). Obama says that the meeting confirmed his confidence in Schumer's ability to advance the agenda of the democratic party.
Obama thanked Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) for his time and service but seems ready to work with Schumer in tomorrow's floor session.
The Name's Bond, Kit Bond
Senator Kit Bond arrived to session late today, still garbed in his workout clothes, stating that he was unaware of today’s markup and had come directly from his personal trainer appointment.
Senator Bond’s attire was demonstrative of his commitment to a new lifestyle, including a new diet and strong workout regime. Senator Bond observed, “In recent years, I have focused on eliminating carbohydrates from my diet, turning instead to fresh vegetable and lots of meat.” Further, Senator Bond has committed himself to an “exercise regiment with a personal trainer several years ago, and since then have committed to hitting the gym five days a week. The routine consists of gentle stretching, 30 minutes of low-impact aerobic activity (such as walking, swimming, or bicycling), and isolated resistance training.”
Senator Bond’s lifestyle is not only good for his health but also good for the environment. He remarks, “My workout is eco-friendly! I exercise outside when time and weather permits, and I always sport eco-friendly workout gear. As a member of the Environment Committee, I would like all Americans to know that socially and environmentally conscious workout clothing is widely available. As a general rule, it is a good idea to select clothing that is made from organic or recycled materials and that are great at wicking moisture.”
This new lifestyle comes on the heels of Senator Bond’s admission that he will not seek reelection in 2010. He explains, “In 1973, I became Missouri's youngest governor. I do not aspire to become Missouri's oldest senator...I'd like to retire while I'm still at the top of my game. I am at the top of my game, indeed – at seventy years old, I am the best shape I have been in decades.”
Executive Remains Silent on Schumer Appointment
Over an hour after Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) became Senate Majority Leader, President Barack Obama still declines to comment on the unprecedented event.
One might expect Obama to use his leadership to guide this change and/or preemptively comment but his silence may suggest some kind of dissonance between the executive and legislative branch.
EPW Concessions Reached, Markup Continues
The committee recessed for over an hour and a half, until the necessity to compromise became unavoidable. After extensive discussions between ranking members and Democratic and Republican party leaders, the committee came to an agreement.
“On behalf of the Republicans, I would like to thank all the Democrats for working with us to pass this legislation,” said Senator James Inhofe.
Chairwoman Barbara Boxer thanked Republicans for coming back and expressed her hope that another walkout will not be necessary.
BREAKING NEWS: Majority Leader Schumer??!!
EPW Walkout, Talks Between Leadership in Progress
Republicans, again, walked out of committee, citing Democrats’ reversal on legislative compromises made Tuesday.
“The Democrats…attempted to blind-sight Republicans by breaking the bipartisan trust established last night and changed the bill,” said Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee.
The act, designed to research new energy alternatives, was significantly amended Tuesday, at which point Republicans and Democrats believed a compromise had been reached. Republicans agreed to strike legislation on drilling in ANWAR and new offshore oil drilling and exploration in the Freedom Act. In return, Democrats agreed to remove wording in the PRECEDE Act that would remove existing off-shore oil sites on the coast of California.
“The Democrat and Republican leadership last night came to an agreement that they would drop any legislation on off-shore oil drilling or ANWAR in exchange for the bill, as written, coming up for an up or down vote in committee without any amendments changed,” said Alexander.
“I understand that the Republicans are frustrated with the way their legislation is going,” said Chairwoman Barbara Boxer, “but I think that it is frankly disappointing that this is the way they continue to handle their frustration.”
According to Alexander, Republican confidence in the previous agreement was seriously jeopardized when Democratic senators raised issues with provisions in the act concerning nuclear energy.
Ranking Republican Senator, James Inhofe, pleaded with his Democratic committee members to refrain from striking in favor of bipartisanship.
“[It was a] simple misunderstanding regarding the concessions made last night,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “I want to reassure my Minnesotan constituents that everything is still going well in committee.”
Boxer is still hopeful that a resolution will be reached and legislation will be passed.
Informal Chat on SHOP Act Gets Heated
While Senate Finance Committee Democrats waited for the Republicans to return from recess (who were joining their colleagues who had just walked out of the EPW Committee), they engaged in small talk, making jokes about the Republican Party and telling anecdotes about times abroad. After the walk-out was over, and the Republican party as a whole was meeting, Senator Grassley (R-IA) returned to propose an idea.
EPW Republicans Walk Out AGAIN!
EPW Republicans just walked out of their committee, the second day in a row. Senator Alexander stood up, told Chairwoman Boxer his frustrations, and led his Republican colleagues out of the room.
Eskimo Testifies in EPW Committee
Last night, the Environment and Public Works Committee debated over Title VII of the Republican-sponsored FREEDOM Act, a section of the bill which would allow for highly-debated resource exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Senator Kit Bond of Missouri was a strong proponent of the section, saying that drilling in the region is "common sense" because "prices are high because there is not enough supply to meet demand".
400 Idaho Students Petition Senator Crapo on the National Debt
“These students brought me petitions with the signatures of more than 400 students in Idaho--and reflect many more than that,” Crapo said. “They have asked that we in Congress pay attention to our national debt and our inability here in Congress to achieve fiscal responsibility. These young people said what I and many others have been saying, only they said it best. Our inability to control our fiscal house here in Washington, DC, is jeopardizing their future.”
Crapo noted that some of the Democrats' pending bills in the Senate Environment and Public Works committee he sits on may prove to be costly and could further increase the skyrocketing deficit. ”They looked me in the eye and asked me to do everything that I can to help protect them from what they see as runaway spending,” Crapo added. “While Americans are tightening their belts, this budget grows the size of government for nine percent for non-defense programs in just the year 2010 alone. If you go back to the 2009 budget we just finalized and add the growth there, you will see a twenty percent increase.” Senator Crapo plans to bring the petition to the next committee meeting or to the senate floor on Thursday.
Caldwell, Idaho Mayor Garret Nancolas said the student advisory board has done extensive research about government spending. “They brought this issue to us and they are concerned about what is being asked of them, their children and their grandchildren,” he said. “They sent petitions out across the Valley and sought views from across the State of Idaho.”
“It was nice to know that Senator Crapo agreed with our feelings about the budget,” said Lainey Ritthaler of Caldwell, who attends Vallivue High School. “This gives you a real sense that our democracy works. We have a voice, coming here from Caldwell. Senator Crapo listened to us and he supported us.” The group also collected signatures from Idaho Falls and Twin Falls students.
EPW Republicans Pleased with Post Walkout Proceedings
Environment and Public Works Committee Ranking Member Inhofe, and Senators Voinovich and Alexander issued press releases last night regarding the dramatic walk out they performed during the committee’s hearing.
CBTV Correction
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Senator Ensign Defends Reno Police Department
Section I – Applauding the Reno Sheriff’s Department by
(a) recognizing the Reno Sheriff’s Department as a law-abiding, capable, legitimate, and effective police department, contrary to its portrayal in the television program and movie “Reno 911;” and
(b) Allocating $300,000 to be used in an advertisement campaign by the Reno Sheriff’s Department in order to distance it from its negative reputation propagated by Comedy Central.
Senator Ensign also issued the following statement:
Since the TV show "Reno 911" hit the air, the Reno Sheriff's Department has endured severe blows to their reputation. I think that the amendment our committee passed today will work to restore their rightful image as an effective law enforcement department and increase their ability to uphold the liberty, safety, and security deserved by the residents of Reno. Our nation's heroic law enforcement officers deserve our unwavering respect, the Reno Amendment will help a damaged department regain it's rightful reputation.
President's Financial Bill Passes After Bitter Debate
Senator Roberts Brings to the Finance Committee Patriotism... and The New York Times?
Senator Roberts (R-KS) has brought life into the Finance Committee the past two days, bringing an edition of the New York Times to the committee's hearing today.
Statement from the President on EPW Walk Out
Grassley introduces amendment for "health enthusiasts" immigrating to Iowa
Senator Charles Grassley, ranking member of the Finance committee, has introduced an amendment for Iowans, offering incentives to "health enthusiasts" who like "flatter, more temperate terrain in which to indulge in their running desires." An argument subsequently broke about regarding the technicalities of running.
Testimonies for EPW stress cap and trade costs and benefits
While witnesses differed on their views of global warming and carbon emissions, all seemed willing to agree that the status quo concerning energy emissions policy insufficiently addresses the problem.
Lomborg, a Swedish professor and environmental analyst, argued against a cap and trade system, claiming the results would be disastrous for the energy companies and American citizens as a whole.
Others were not as opposed to the proposed system, such as Chris Brigham of Southern California Edison, who supported a modified cap and trade system.
"A carbon tax will cripple the industry…and we will have to forward these expenses on the customers, said Brigham. "The electricity industry…is willing to support a fair and well designed cap and trade system…that has adequate lead time for implementation."
Cost analysis was not the only topic discussed during testimonies as witness Jeremiah O'Malley commented on the devastating effects of emphysema. O'Malley believes he developed the disease from working at his town's power plant for 26 years. O'Malley's father, who died of emphysema, also worked for the power plant.
Finance Committee Strikes Language Regarding Abortion from HOPE Act
Democratic Press Conference
President Barack Obama and Secretary of the Treasury Timothy Geithner centered their press conference on economic issues. Obama opened by emphasizing the need to restore consumer confidence and economic stability. Geithner then presented a more detailed account of how to reach these objectives through legislation.
EWP at standstill
According to Senator Kit Bond, "Senator Alexander was speaking and cut off by chairwoman Boxer without parliamentary justification. Therefore, Republicans felt it necessary to walk out." The Republicans' action, he said, was "unavoidable" because "Democrats are currently prohibiting cooperation."
After yielding 10 minutes to Senator Inhofe, who then yielded to Senator Alexander, a discussion of the Green Bill. Republicans quickly cited serious errors in the bill such as appropriations for "$60 $200," which Alexander asserted was not a real number.
"Republicans would rather play politics than legislate," said Democratic Senator Conrad of the incident.
Democratic Senator Reid and Senator Alexander exchanged heated words during the showdown, continuing the hostility shown to one another from the previous session.
Currently, the walkout continues with no resolution in sight.
BREAKING: Republicans Walk Out of EPW Hearing
Sen. Roberts' taxi hijacked by French youth
BREAKING NEWS: Republicans Speak Out Against “The Blank Check Act”
The act is an effort by the Democratic Party to ease the economic crisis that has ripped through the financial services industry over the past few months. In a statement issued by Secretary of the Treasury Timothy Geithner, the Democrats remark that the US government needs additional authority to handle a financial collapse on the scale of the AIG or Lehman Brothers. The Democratic statement observes that the government only has two options in the current environment: 1). Give the struggling financial firm funds; 2). Allow the firm to fail. In the statement, the Democrats mention that “those options do not provide the government with the necessary tools to manage the resolution of the firm efficiently and effectively in a manner that limits the systemic risk with the least cost to the taxpayer.”
As a solution to the current situation, the Authority for System Significant Financial Companies Act of 2009 would give the government the power to put the firm into a conservatorship or receivership the government decided to reorganize or liquidate of the firm. The act would further reduce the burden on taxpayers by giving the government the ability to pay off a company’s debt obligations through the sale of assets.
According to the statement attached to the act, the proposed legislation would be financed by the government’s ability to liquidate firm’s assets. Any additional funding would come from the FDIC, ex-ante or ex-post taxation.
The Republican caucus firmly opposes this legislation because it effectively gives the government a “blank check” and unregulated authority when dealing with struggling financial institutions. Senator McConnell remarked that the act gave the government “unprecedented and irresponsible” levels of power. McConnell observed that the act would effectively give the government a blank check in bailing out non-bank financial firms, without any mention of where the funds would be appropriated from.
Senator Grassley (R-IA) was most especially concerned with the bill’s provision that gives the government the ability to seize power of an organization for 30 days without any regard for the shareholders of the company. Grassley remarked that this effectively gives the government the ability to do whatever they want with a company without regulation or oversight.
Finally, Senator Specter (R-PA) drew on his experience as a former prosecutor and took issue with the constitutionality of the potential for ex-post-facto taxation. He directly referenced the constitution, demonstrating that ex-post-facto taxation is explicitly unconstitutional.
The Republican press conference closed with the GOP proclaiming that they are dedicated to fighting this legislation in order to protect the freedoms that Americans hold to be self-evident.
Republicans Fight Back for HOPE Act
Republican leaders addressed allegations of deceitful clauses in the HOPE Act from the Obama Administration during their press conference today held in North Quad.