Topic: Budget Resolution

The latest congressional continuing resolution, which funds the government through December 9th, includes $1.2 billion for the salaries and expenses of Congress and the Senate. This focus on self-funding is cited as an example of political careerism over the needs of the general public.

The U.S. Senate passed a budget resolution during a marathon session ending at 3:00 AM. Senator Robert Menendez is heard criticizing the practice of voting on "fundamental" foreign policy and national security amendments in the middle of the night without committee oversight. The hosts mock the exhausted appearance of the senators during the C-SPAN broadcast.

During the late-night Senate budget session, Senator David Vitter proposed an amendment requiring photo IDs for federal elections. The amendment was opposed by Democratic senators who argued it would disenfranchise voters and was inappropriate for a budget resolution debated at 3:15 AM. The hosts highlight the absurdity of the "vote-a-rama" process.

Representative Dennis Kucinich introduces a privileged resolution to end the war in Afghanistan, highlighting the disparity between war spending and domestic needs. Kucinich argues that while trillions are available for military conflict, there is no money for housing, healthcare, or education. The hosts note that the war continues despite the lack of a formal declaration by Congress.