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WTF, Claire? You support the auto bailout, but oppose the bill because it includes a pay raise for federal judges? Please go away now.
UPDATE: I’m told by a senior Democratic staffer (not Claire’s) that the provision in question was a COLA increase for federal judges, essential for retaining and recruiting quality legal minds who can make far more in private practice. The provision is apparently being stricken from the bill. it’s possible that early reports got it wrong, and McCaskill is working to get the provision pulled from the bill, rather than opposing the entire bailout. If she votes against this for any other reason than a poison pill amendment from Republicans, she’s probably past the point of me even offering a kind word on her behalf when she faces re-election, even in her defense against rightwing acquaintances.
I’ll also note that McCaskill, along with everyone else in Congress, will automatically get a pay increase of $5,000 on January 1. Federal judges do not get a pay increase without a congressional vote in favor.
with unrelated matter. Especially federal pay raises when a lot of Americans are losing their jobs.
That being said, I’ve supported restructuring the pay of the federal judiciary for a number of years and it needs to be done. It has been in every report to Congress from the court for the last number of years. This isn’t a bad idea, it’s just a politically stupid idea to tie it to this bill. Because it gives cover to people who just don’t want to vote for the bill.
I’ll tell you something though – if Claire doesn’t vote for this bill she can kiss union support goodbye. And if Claire doesn’t vote for this bill and the economy plunges into depression (did you see last week’s unemployment numbers) the general voting population isn’t going to remember that she “saved” them from the evils of judges getting paid more money.
Is it really the case that this bill needs to pass before next term? Is it possible that Claire knows that Dems can wait for a better bill on Jan 21st? Like one that doesn’t take money out of clean energy? Just trying to be optimistic.
…in January they can watch their kids on television:
And I’m pretty sure they haven’t been voted one in a while even though as you point out CONGRESS gets them.
I don’t think it’s even worth fighting about.
for cloture but there weren’t 60 votes to cut off debate. Another successful Republican filibuster. With the help of 3 Democrats who crossed over.