Greasing the Wheels in the World’s Most Deliberative Body

Senator Jeff Merkley had called for more radical changes, but was satisfied to eliminate the ability of a senator to demand reading of a bill if it has been publicly available for at least 72 hours.The U.S. Senate this week took steps to curb the use of delaying tactics that critics called unconscionable and supporters said were essential to protect the views of the minority party.

Oregon’s two Democratic senators played prominent roles in the rule changes. Senator Ron Wyden managed to eliminate the practice of secret holds, where a senator could anonymously delay votes on a bill or a judicial appointee. Senators even were able to transfer their “hold” to another anonymous senator.

Senator Jeff Merkley had called for more radical changes, but was satisfied to eliminate the ability of a senator to demand reading of a bill if it has been publicly available for at least 72 hours. They seem like modest changes, but big steps for the most deliberative body in the world.

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Majority of Voters Favors Earmarks

Recent survey shows voters tend to like candidates who bring on the "earmarks," such as Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.).In Washington state, Senator Patty Murray is running on her record of securing federal funds for local projects. These “earmarks” have received a lot of scrutiny over the last few years, causing many members of Congress to downplay their role in securing earmarks. 

But contrary to popular belief, securing earmarks is still a net positive, according to a recent Pew Center/National Journal Congressional Connection poll. The poll found a majority of Americans, 53 percent, are more likely to vote for a candidate in the 2010 congressional midterms with "a record of bringing government projects and money" to their districts. Just 12 percent said they would be less likely to vote for such a candidate, while 33 percent said it would make no difference.

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