Boehner’s new strategy: The Senate goes first
This “Senate first” strategy allows a divided House to sit back and watch Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) struggle to wrangle votes in a chamber filled with vulnerable Democrats up for reelection in 2014. But it also carries substantial risks. If Senate Republicans join with Democrats and push through major elements of Obama’s agenda, House Republicans could become isolated if they seek to dilute or block the legislative push…
In the last Congress, tensions between the House and Senate were so raw that Boehner’s aides coined a phrase as the Senate largely avoided tough votes during Obama’s reelection bid: They said the chamber has “gone limp,” according to several sources.
But now that the tables are turned, the sit-back-and-wait posture already is sparking some friendly fire from Senate Republicans, who have periodically sparred with the House GOP over its political tactics during the past two years.
“The House needs to up their game when it comes to oversight,” South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham said, calling for more hearings on the deadly attacks in Benghazi last year. “Pick up your game a little bit over there.”
Blowback
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This is pretty much what I expect to happen.
Doomberg on February 13, 2013 at 1:52 PM
Despite the risks, it is necessary. The Senate must be forced to go on the record.
Xasprtr on February 13, 2013 at 2:01 PM
If Politico gives a monkey “BUT……” you know it’s a good plan. There were too many Democrat senators in red states (see Tester) who had no business being reelected.
Marcus on February 13, 2013 at 2:01 PM
It’s almost as if Politico is new to the concept of bicameralism and normal congressional order. This is how things are supposed to be done. Problem is that when the House passes something first, the Senate does nothing. So, now the Senate can pass something; then the House passes something; and they go to conference. Crazy. I know.
besser tot als rot on February 13, 2013 at 2:05 PM
He’s up for reelection right? This RINO? Please retire him Lord!!
HondaV65 on February 13, 2013 at 2:06 PM
If they cannot stop his agenda then what is the point of having a majority…?
NeoKong on February 13, 2013 at 2:12 PM
There was an article about how no one is willing to run against him, so he is likely to retain the seat. Likewise I heard Cornyn in Texas is unlikely to face a primary challenger either.
Doomberg on February 13, 2013 at 2:24 PM
You sir are a sentimentalist.
/s
roy_batty on February 13, 2013 at 2:42 PM
Bend Over Boehner…
albill on February 13, 2013 at 2:47 PM
Leading from behind?
aryeung on February 13, 2013 at 2:51 PM
What difference does it make? Senate Democrats did nothing for the last 4 years and they were re-elected en-masse. They apparently are what the American public wants.
neuquenguy on February 13, 2013 at 2:56 PM
Hey, this actually could work in our favor. The Senate does nothing, the House does nothing. Gridlock we win.
D-fusit on February 13, 2013 at 3:47 PM
Boehner:
Shut your mouth and don’t do anything. You get yourself into trouble every time by jumping the gun. Go on vacation or spend time with the family. This is a gift providing you don’t blow it (again).
trs on February 13, 2013 at 3:55 PM