The two speech rule is per day but that day may last over several days rather than a 24 hr stretch. I didn't think all Senators were compelled to attent but only enough to get 51 which is what a quorum is. There were never more than 75 present the other night during the quorum calls... so at least 25 weren't there (compelled).
I think they can make motions which are debateable, but not sure about amendments (but Daschle offered an amendment or something to Frist's call for the vote the other night), .... So as they approach the end of the two speech list on one topic another is established.
Yes it's an event that is tiring on all but not so much so when they have sleeping arrangements in the offices, etc.
FL freeper (and anyone else who wants to act) help needed. Senator Graham (D_FL) made his announcement today that he is running for President (cast of thousands!). I personally don't think he has a chance - but I used his announcement to send him the following email about the Estrada block by RATS.:
Senator Graham:
I see in today's Melbourne paper that you are going to run for President. That of course is your right. However there is one action that as a presidential contender you should act on immediately. That is to stop your fellow Democrats in the Senate in their attempt to damage the constitution and abuse their "advise and consent" responsibility to the President's Judicial nominations. What a few Democrats are doing to the Senate, Mr. Estrada and this country is bordering on criminal.
What about war against America by terrorists don't they understand? Why do they continue to play political games when our country is in danger? Is their allegiance to regaining power at any price or to this country?
Senator Graham believe me, a vast majority of true Americans are more than fed up with the actions of the Senate Democrats. You have the opportunity to show that you place country over partisanship and if you think you are presidential material, we need to see where your allegiance lies.