June 09, 2005

Hagel Profile in The Hill

The Hill profiled Sen. Hagel (R-NE) today. While the article mainly focuses on his 2008 presidential aspirations, it also discusses his role in the Bolton nomination, and his proposal for Social Security reform.

Hagel has parted ways with the administration often enough to draw attention — but usually not in a way that inspires the same animosity that some establishment Republicans feel toward McCain. He voted against the 2002 farm bill and the president’s No Child Left Behind education legislation.

He won some kudos and good press for proposing his own Social Security plan, although President Bush’s effort on the topic has been stalled. “I think it takes a certain amount of substance and integrity to develop a bill that deals with a politically serious issue like Social Security,” said Sen. John Sununu (R-N.H.), who also put forward a bill.

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May 27, 2005

Profile of Senator Brownback

The Hill profiled Senator Sam Brownback yesterday. One of the most conservative Senators, he is considering running for President, and is threatening to fillibuster the upcoming Stem Cells legislation.

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May 17, 2005

What Does the Chair Do? Nothing.

You know its a slow news day when The Hill reports on the "busy work" done by the junior Republican senators who are often selected to chair Senate deliberations each session. If you're interested in senate procedure and operations, it a worthwhile read. There's also a few interesting historical notes.

The chairman has several important procedural responsibilities, such as deciding which senator to recognize based on rules and precedents, a determination that can affect debate and legislative outcomes. The chairman also must rule on motions, as guided by the Senate parliamentarian.

Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), who is president pro tempore of the Senate as the most senior Republican in the chamber, acknowledges that he brings a folder of work material when he sits in the chair — a task he performs frequently. “Under the rules, you’re supposed to not do anything, say anything, or even breathe,” he quips. “I don’t read a book or anything like that.”

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