Salazar!
With a decision on whether to allow filibusters looming, centrist lawmakers met in various offices around the Capitol complex — in Sen. John Warner (news, bio, voting record)'s office at one point, Republican Mike DeWine's office at another — seeking a compromise that would avert a politically explosive confrontation.
Democratic Sen. Ken Salazar of Colorado had attended at least 13 private meetings over the previous 24 hours with senators trying to reach a deal, a spokesman said.
"It's kind of like exams. If you have a date-certain, people tend to react. So in that sense, this has been a good thing," said Sen. Lindsey Graham (news, bio, voting record), R-S.C., one of the negotiators.
Congressional aides said late Wednesday the negotiators failed to reach agreement but would resume their talks Thursday. The aides spoke on condition of anonymity because the discussions are being held behind closed doors.