A Vote-a-rama! One Bill to Rule Them All, One Vote to Find Them

A Shadow of a Bill is Growing in the Senate!

Hmph! A fool's hope perhaps but the Senators have begun their great undertaking this Monday brandishing amendments like swords against a rising shadow of a bill. This 'megabill,' as some call it is much like the One Ring – powerful alluring and fraught with peril. After a weekend of negotiations that seemed as endless as the Mines of Moria they commenced what they call a 'vote a rama.' A strange name I must admit sounds like some newfangled amusement for bored Elves. It began near 9 a.m. ET and who knows when it shall end? 'Not all those who wander are lost,' but I suspect some of these senators might be.

Unlimited Power! (And Amendments)

The Senators bless their hairy feet are permitted to introduce an unlimited number of amendments. Unlimited! It sounds like the power Saruman so desperately craved. This forces them to cast votes back to back a veritable marathon of democracy. Senator Collins from a place called Maine (sounds like a land of hobbits perhaps?) intends to file 'a number of amendments.' One does not simply walk into Mordor but one can certainly file a number of amendments!

The Point of the Spear or Just a Pointless Spear?

Most of these amendments they say won't achieve the fifty votes needed to pass. But ah 'there's some good in this world and it's worth fighting for.' These amendments serve as political messages banners raised for all to see. Democrats aim to force Republicans to cast votes on controversial issues shining a light on Medicaid work requirements and the end of tax credits for electric vehicles. A clever tactic like Bilbo using the Ring to sneak past the trolls.

Delays Delays You Shall Not Pass! (Until Monday)

This 'vote a rama' was meant to begin earlier but alas delays! As I always say 'A wizard is never late nor is he early he arrives precisely when he means to.' But these senators they seem to be constantly shifting their schedules. The weekend was spent wrangling this 940 page package aiming for a July 4th deadline. Fireworks and legislation – a strange pairing indeed.

A Narrow Victory a Narrow Bridge

Republicans managed a procedural win but with dissent among their ranks. Senators Tillis and Paul voted against the motion causing quite a stir. Senate Leader Thune (a name that sounds suspiciously like 'dune,' suggesting a dry and dusty place) has a precarious majority. He can only afford to lose one more vote in addition to those two! It's like trying to cross the Bridge of Khazad dûm with only a twig.

The House Awaits! (and likely objects)

Even if Thune manages to get the bill through the Senate the House awaits a den of lawmakers ready to scrutinize every change. Some House Republicans are already raising objections. It's as if they're saying 'Fly you fools!' to the entire endeavor. The House leadership has told its members to prepare for votes on Tuesday or Wednesday. The saga continues. One thing is certain: this is far from over! Stay tuned and may the best amendment win. Though as I have often found the best course is not always the most obvious one.