[shrinkermd]

As I read this, it seems to mean regardless of the outcome of Senator Johnson's tenure, the outcome would remain the same--RAT Senate for the next 2 years. Am I right?

[Pukin Dog]

No, you are not right.

The Democrats would never filibuster a move for realignment should Johnson die, because Republicans would just prevent a quorum. The Senate would be effectively closed for business.

[prov1813man]

Yes, it seems you are right. This falls under the recent parliamentary "adjustment" whereby, if dims win elections, they are in charge and, when pubs win, the dims are still in charge.

This is more commonly termed the "who's your daddy?" provision offered up by republican "leadership" eager to be popular with the media and avoid having their milk money stolen by the Pelosi gang.

[okie01]

Am I right?

Apparently so. It appears that, if Johnson is unable to fulfill his duties...and the GOP governor of South Dakota appoints a Republican to the seat, creating a 50/50 Senate...the Democrats will filibuster a rules change...and the Republicans are content to remain in the minority for the duration.

Mitch McConnell was evidently unwilling to play Tom Daschle to Harry Reid's Trent Lott.

I've no idea why...but I'll guess: McConnell senses that, if the above scenario came to pass, at least one of the Senate's RINOs would do a Jim Jeffords.

[newzjunkey]

[Logical me]

All this means nothing. We are stuck with these insane RATS for at least 2 years and there is literally no way we can take back the House. So just settle back and enjoy the bugeyed RAT. She already instigated and changed a House rule that now allows a tax increase with just a simple majority. America is if for hell for two years. As far as the Senate, just forget it. You add the RINOS and the two Independents to the RATS, not a chance. Those yellow belly Republican voters got just what they wanted, utter chaos.

[El Gato]

A similar scenario unfolded in January 2001, when a 50-50 Senate convened. In 2001, Democrats demanded a "kick-out clause" in organizing negotiations that would automatically scrap agreements on committee ratios and funding levels and force new organizational rules. But Republicans decided this month against a confrontation that would come from demanding a similar clause.

Still playing softball, or maybe tidily winks. You'd think they'd learn, but they don't seem to do so. Too worried about acceptance on the Washington cocktail circuit to care about the future of the nation.

[Bommer]

The $64,000 question is how long does the Senate wait to determine when and or if Johnson can fufill his duties? For all we know, he could be in a Teri Shievo status. I have heard only that he sits up and is alret. Nothing that tells me that he has not suffered brain damage.

[upchuck]

"Nobody over here talked about that at all," said Don Stewart, spokesman for McConnell.

Okay Mitch, you're "oh" and one.

Side comment: Is it just me? I'm thinking the Senate needs some SERIOUS adjustment.