I was thinking last night, esp. about Frist's vote tonight on compelling the Senator's attendance at tomorrow's vote. I guess he's concerned the the Democrats might make a 'chicken run' and try to avoid voting on cloture, as it needs 3/5 of all senators, not just those present. If that happends, any idea what will happen next? What would be Frist's best move?
A) Ask the president of the Senate for a ruling whether a fillibuster is appropriate for judicial nominees, get his ruling, and ask for a vote on it (requires majority of those present?)
B) Ask for a change in the senate standing rules and specify more clearly how advise & consent role is to be carried out, i.e. lowering cloture vote threshold on subsequent votes, etc. (I believe that needs 2/3 of senators present and voting - not hard to do if the democrats are 'MIA')
Cool , I don't have to leave to go get lunch.........
To send the Seargent at Arms out to get them. The only adult and appropriate decision here requires the presence of "the body" of the Senate.