Topic: Max Baucus

Congress debates granting Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) to Russia as it joins the WTO. Senator Max Baucus argues the deal is a "one-way street" benefiting US exporters, while Senator Jon Kyl opposes it on human rights grounds and Russia's failure to protect intellectual property. The hosts mock the use of human rights as a political tool given US incarceration rates.

Vice President Joe Biden is mocked for a "Meet the Press" appearance where he defended the fair treatment of terrorists while simultaneously predicting their execution. The hosts also discuss the removal of "Buy American" provisions from the stimulus bill, noting that other nations like China and Japan successfully implemented similar protectionist measures in their own recovery plans.

Observations from the Senate floor during healthcare debates include a $500 billion proposed reduction in Medicare. Senator Max Baucus is described as appearing exhausted or impaired during late-night sessions, while Senator Al Franken is noted for a brief, humorous exchange regarding his remaining speaking time.

The Baucus healthcare bill is identified as a tax because the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is designated to enforce penalties for those without insurance. Failure to pay the mandate could result in fines up to $25,000 or a year in prison, contradicting presidential promises that the plan would not constitute a tax increase.