Senate Cloakroom:
Analysis:
The Senate returns this week after a three-week absence. In the wake of passing an unpopular health care bill, the Senators must now contend with another unpopular issue – increasing the nation’s debt limit by nearly $1 trillion. The debate, which is expected to last into next week, will highlight our looming entitlement crisis, excessive spending and the increasingly aggressive involvement of government in our economy.
Major Floor Action:
A vote on Beverly Martin to be a US Circuit Court judge will kick off what is likely to be a busy week of floor action. Up to a dozen amendments are expected on the debt limit increase (H J Res 45). Amendments on TARP, EPA regulations, spending caps and PAYGO are possible. The most touted amendment is the fatally flawed Conrad-Gregg fiscal task force.
Major Committee Action:
The Christmas Day terrorist attack will come under scrutiny, with the Homeland Security, Judiciary, Commerce and Intelligence Committees all holding hearings.
House Cloakroom:
Analysis:
The White House and Democrat Congressional Leadership have once again retreated behind closed doors to make deals and finalize a single version of their government takeover of health care. Major issues still facing the Democrats include taxes, abortion, the inclusion of a government-run plan or exchange, and Medicare.
Major Floor Action:
The House will likely consider three bills dealing with disputed water rights claims between the States of New Mexico and Arizona and a number of American Indian tribes in the Southwest.
Major Committee Action:
The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is expected to hold a hearing to question Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner about his role in the bailout of American International Group Inc.
Co-authored by Eric Heis.