Could McConnell delay seating Doug Jones if elected?

[Thunderbeast]

Mitch has a math problem. He probably can count on two NO votes on the tax bill. Rand Paul is out for now on injured reserve. Several other GOP Senators are in high tax states that will get hurt by SALT provisions. The vote will be close if the bill passes.

If Doug Jones is elected on December 12, how long can they screw around with certification and obstruction before Luther Strange is replaced?

I foresee a "slow walk" to seating Jones.

Thoughts?

[Angry Dragon]

1. he better have a lot of proof not to seat him

[bench scientist]

2. The latest he could delay is Jan 3rd, 2018.

The Twentieth Amendment of the Consitution mandates the Senate convene at noon on the third day of January, every year. Any Senator-elect would need to be sworn in by then. The current election in Alabama is scheduled for 12/12/2018. The current 115th Congress, 1st Session for December is Dec 18 - Dec 29. If Moore wins it's possible they'd seat him early.

p.s. Luther Strange is not running.

[get the red out]

3. I actually don't think he would

He is selfish and calculating, I doubt he is a true believer in anything but his own advancement and that of his party. I think he would see that as more detrimental in the long run than beneficial in the short run. He would keep his powder dry for 2018 and not add one more thing that could motivate Dems.