Monday, July 02, 2018

DIG IN YOUR F-ING HEELS

Democratic leaders (so-called) are saying they can't outvote senate Republicans on the new Trump SCOTUS appointee, whomever he or she might be.

Even if the Dems can't prevail, they can make life miserable for Republicans, in the Senate and in the House.

In both houses, business proceeds mostly by "unanimous consent."

For instance: a member asks the chair to put, say, a newspaper article in "the Record." The presiding officer says: "without objection,"  and, hearing none, taps the gavel and moves on.

If any member present says "I object," the chair then has to take a vote on the matter.  The chair will want a voice vote. At which time any member can demand a roll call vote.

At this point, and at any point, a member can note the absence of a Quorum.  Quorum calls are a pain in the ass, especially for the proponents of the current business.

The Republicans can win every roll-call vote, and they can satisfy any Quorum call, but they would hate to have to to do it, at least more than once or twice.

Among the many plans put forward, such as persuasion or public pressure, this procedural obstruction can be one component.

In summary, the Democrats in both houses should:
  • Always deny unanimous consent.
  • Demand roll-call votes on all matters.
  • Allow no business to be conducted in the absence of a quorum.
Do the Democrats have the guts to do this?  No.  This lack of guts is why Trump will win re-election, if he makes it that far.

Civility, per Auntie Chuck and Great-grandma Nancy:  "Please,sir, I'm sorry to disturb you, but, could you possibly remove your boot from my neck?"

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