Analysis –
Will the health care debate start next week? Everyone is asking the question, but no one seems to have the answer. Rumors will continue to dominate the discussion until Majority Leader Reid (D-NV) takes some concrete action. In the midst of health care speculation, the Senate will consider the nomination of Judge David Hamilton, a controversial nominee who boldly embraces the “empathy” standard.
Major Floor Action –
- The Senate will continue debate on the Military Construction and Veterans Appropriation bill (H.R.3082). A vote on final passage is likely.
- Last week, Senator Reid filed cloture on Judge David Hamilton, setting up a vote early this week. Some conservatives have expressed serious concerns over Hamilton’s judicial philosophy.
Major Committee Action –
- The Energy and Natural Resources Committee will hold three separate hearings on global warming covering international aspects, forest management and offshore energy production.
- The Banking, House and Urban Affairs Committee and the Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee will both tackle financial regulatory reform.
Analysis –
With Veterans’ Day on Wednesday, the Senate will have a shorter than normal workweek – Monday and Tuesday. Senators will spend the remainder of the week back home honoring veterans and, presumably, hearing from constituents about health care. The timeline for Senate action on the Reid-Obama health care bill is ever changing, which suggests substantial problems exist. A score from the Congressional Budget Office could come as early as next week.
Major Floor Action -
- On Monday, the Senate will vote on the nomination of Andre Davis to be a Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit.
- The Senate will likely complete the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill (H.R.3082) on Tuesday, in time for Veterans’ Day.
Major Committee Action –
- The Foreign Relations Committee will hold a hearing on international treaties, which is an ominous sign for those who value American sovereignty.
- Ironically, the Budget Committee will hold a hearing on a “Bipartisan Process Proposal for Long-Term Fiscal Stability.” How that jives with a $1.5 trillion health care bill is anyone’s guess.
- The Energy and Natural Resources Committee will hold a hearing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- The Finance Committee will hold a hearing on global warming legislation and jobs. Just a hint, it costs jobs!