Retiring Lieberman in Senate Legislative Mix Unlike Peers

Senator Joe Lieberman, a Connecticut independent and onetime Democrat known for frequent splits with his former party, has found a fresh way to stand apart: He’s the only retiring senator with a solid chance to leave a mark on policy this year.

Lieberman may bring two significant bills to the floor, while nine other departing senators will have few similar opportunities before their terms end. Senate Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad, a North Dakota Democrat, won’t lead debate on a budget plan because Senate Democrats decided not to go through the exercise this year. Democrat Jeff Bingaman of New Mexico, chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources panel, ends his career as lawmakers trade blame over high gas prices with no energy agreement in sight.