Obstruction Is Still the Main Republican Strategy
Yes, GOP senators agreed to pass a few pandemic relief measures. But those were exceptions, not adjustments to their approach to politics and governing.
New day dawning? Nah.
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A modified sort-of Catch of the Day goes to the political analyst Bill Scher, who notes in RealClear Politics that despite all the talk that Republicans would filibuster everything, the Senate did pass, and President Joe Biden will soon sign, a bill to extend the Paycheck Protection Program of the pandemic relief plan enacted a year ago. Yes, there was a filibuster against the extension — but it was defeated overwhelmingly in a 96-to-4 cloture vote. It’s worth mentioning that two Republican amendments were offered and defeated, so that’s also a small sign that the Senate is actually legislating.