With one potential government shutdown close to being averted and another one on the horizon, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) signaled a renewed effort to break Congress’ habit of budget brinkmanship.
McConnell told reporters Tuesday that he would like to settle on a topline budget number for the next two years and that he, House Speaker John Boehner and President Obama spoke last week about getting those negotiations started.
“I would expect them to start very soon,” McConnell said, according to video posted by Roll Call. A two-year deal would allow lawmakers to get back to the typical appropriations process, McConnell said.
Boehner recently announced he would be stepping down from his speakership after a stand-off with House conservatives calling for a government shutdown over Planned Parenthood’s federal funding. His resignation has defused the current shutdown talk, and both chambers are poised to pass funding legislation that will last through December 11. Concerns have been raised, however, as how Boehner’s replacement will navigate that next budget deadline, as well as the other high-stakes deadlines bleeding into it.
“We are going to have to deal with all of these issues between now and December the 11th. How much of that could come together before Speaker Boehner leaves, I have no earthly idea,” McConnell said.
Among the issues expected to be a flashpoint in the months to come is how to deal with the budget caps placed on spending after 2011’s debt ceiling showdown.
I think there is a pretty good chance they put something together this month, before Boehner leaves. McConnell knows what a disaster is waiting for his party if he lets the crazies back into the game that close to an election.
And the crazies will absolutely blow their gaskets…when they finally realize what is actually going down.
I can’t wait to see it. It is possible that Ted Cruz’s head will actually explode on live teevee.
http://www.usnews.com/opinion/articles/2010/05/20/the-republicans-tea-party-problem
2010-------When they still had time to do something about their little darlings…
Just to clarify, it’s not “Congress’ habit of budget brinkmanship,” it’s the Republican party’s habit.
I can almost here the conversation now
Obama: You know how everyone says I don’t have any more fucks to give? How about you show them how different we are John and give them one more, great big “Fuck You” as you walk out the door?
Boehner: We finally agree on something!