Maine Republicans may suspend rules to pass their redistricting plan

[Maine-ah]

Source: BDN

AUGUSTA, Maine — Despite repeated attempts over the last few weeks, Republicans and Democrats in Augusta have not come together on a congressional redistricting plan, setting up a legislative showdown during next week’s special session.

When the dust settles, one of two plans likely will be approved by the GOP-controlled House and Senate, but neither plan is expected to get a two-thirds majority.

Republicans indicated on Friday that they plan to pass their plan — one Democrats strongly oppose — with a simple majority vote, something that goes against not only tradition but also requires a temporary suspension of rules.

“To be honest, I’d like to see a consensus, but there is ample precedent for a simple majority,” said Senate President Kevin Raye, R-Perry. “The Democrats used that provision many times when they were in charge.”

Read more: http://bangordailynews.com/2011/09/23/news/state/maine-republicans-may-suspend-rules-to-pass-their-redistricting-plan/

[SoapBox]

1. Vote rigging at it's finest.

Wake the "F" up America...and look at what these terrorists are up to.

[gtar100]

2. Proving yet again, repugs don't have principles, they have interests.

They could never win a fair election.

[onehandle]

3. Simple majorities are only acceptable when a Republican plan is on the table. nt

[Cool Logic]

4. “The Democrats used that provision many times when they were in charge.”

Whether it's the Constitution or a mere state legislature rule, politicians continually endeavor to skirt the rules.

[MaineDem]

6. The last redistricting plan was drawn up by the Court

The Dem majority did NOT suspend the rules to pass their plan. It didn't get the 2/3 majority so it went to the court to decide.

[PotatoChip]

7. +1

This is true.

[Occulus]

8. Do you EVER take an even faintly progressive position on ANY topic, cool logic?

Ever?

[Gormy Cuss]

5. The GOP plan is baldfaced gerrymandering.

They don't even care about the backlash because their new GOP friendly lines will be in place for a decade.