Congress Meets for One Last Fight and to Look Ahead

[groovedaddy]

WASHINGTON — A proposed bailout of imperiled American automakers is coming under even more criticism as the departing Congress returns on Monday for a final partisan fight over the issue, while incoming lawmakers assemble for internal power struggles, leadership elections and a taste of life to come on Capitol Hill.

Although dozens of new representatives and at least eight new senators will gather for orientation and to take part in the selection of top Democrats and Republicans for the 111th Congress, which convenes Jan. 6, members of the 110th Congress — many of them defeated or retiring — still have work to do this year.

Democrats are pushing a plan to provide $25 billion to auto manufacturers over the objections of many Republicans and President Bush, who say they favor easing some restrictions on federally subsidized loans already approved by Congress.

“With the very first vote after the election, Democratic leaders in Congress want to pass a $25 billion handout to Detroit with no promises of reform, accountability or transparency by the automakers and their union base,” said Senator John Cornyn of Texas, who is in line to lead Senate Republican campaign operations.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/17/washington/17cong.html?th&emc=th

[Skittles]

1. a Texas repuke demanding reform, accountability and transparency

now that is fucking rich