Blog - Congress Links

Yet more snow has shut down Congress and most of Washington, D.C. As lawmakers enjoy another unscheduled snow day, let’s take a look at some articles and blog posts of note from today:

• The historic pace of filibusters and holds used to block Senate action has Democrats fuming and some wondering if a Constitutional crisis is at hand. Ben Eidelson at Slate looks at the history of the filibuster and is heartened by the fact that the debate is starting to look at the problem as an institutional one. (Slate)
• Speaking of Senate dysfunction, Sen. Harry Reid [D, NV] previously suggested using recess appointments to fill open government positions. Now AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and President Obama have joined the chorus. (The Washington Post)
• As Toyota rolls out its “we screwed up” commercials, the Senate Commerce Committee has scheduled hearings for March 2 to discuss the company’s faulty gas pedals. (The Detroit News)
• Two veteran House members, Rep. Vern Elhers [R, MI-3] and Rep. Diane Watson [D, CA-33] have announced that they will not seek re-election. Elhers is the 17th Republican to retire at the end of this Congress and Watson is the 13th House Democrat. (The Washington Post)
• Captain America is apparently not a fan of the tea party movement. (The Washington Times)