TPM: Dems to GOP. Obstruct Health Care Debate, And We'll Be Here 'Til Christmas

[flpoljunkie]

Dems To GOP: Obstruct Health Care Debate, And We'll Be Here 'Til Christmas
Brian Beutler | December 2, 2009

A fragile gentleman's agreement between Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is breaking down, and now, three days into the health care debate, having held not a single vote on a single amendment, Democrats are saying enough is enough. And if they have to stay in session through Christmas to pass the bill, that's what they'll do.

After an impromptu caucus meeting on health care, Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL) told reporters, "the Republican leadership is stalling us and we have decided that we are going right through Christmas." If it comes to that. "We go through as long as it takes, including Christmas day, if it takes it to pass it."

In response to a question from TPMDC, Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin told reporters, "unless the Republican leadership comes forward with a reasonable approach to these amendments, I think our patience is wearing thin."

"We're just not going to sit here forever and watch this bill go down," he said.

more...

http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2009/12/dems-to-gop-obstruct-health-care-debate-and-well-be-here-until-christmas.php?ref=fpa

[sharp_stick]

1. I'll believe that when I see it

I'd love to see them do it but IMO this is just another empty threat.

[Parker CA]

2. I hope they stick to their guns and actually stay in session until this bill is done.

[Clio the Leo]

3. Fa la la la la, la la la la!!!

They're already working weekends (I think depending on how much they get down this week.) Smart move on Reid's part.

[cutlassmama]

4. Didn't they already try this with "vacation" time? I seem to remember it not working then either