Twomore must-reads. The Senate has adjourned for good, leaving the House the option of embracing the last Senate-adopted budget or adjourning and forcing a special session.
Republicans are decrying this, even though it is precisely the strategy they were thinking about launching.
This is just insanity. I'm not even really sure what I think of the Senate Democrats' move. To be sure, their hand was forced. When it becomes absolutely clear that the other side won't deal in good faith, it becomes damn difficult to keep trying.
Bottom line: A special session is basically inevitable. The Republicans just keep saying no one will negotiate with them. I don't buy it. They keep getting offers and then saying no one will compromise. Here's an idea, Mr. Confuse Negotiations With Bribery and the rest of your party: make a damn counter-offer. Start acting like adults. Stop crying. Stop cussing. Start working.
Update -- The session is over. There is no budget.
After watching Representatives bicker over procedural matters in the House Appropriations Committee, Sen. John Cobb, R-Augusta, told reporters he was disgusted with House Republican leadership and compared them to third-world dictators.
"You gotta a couple of thugs that are just taking it over," said Cobb, a moderate Republican who often votes with Democrats.
Thanks for the sanity, Senator. This session is a giant black eye on the state.
