Some sounds good (ethics rules, 911 Commission recommendations). But why am I not surprised they intend to pick up with their traditional tax and spend ways?
Dems Eager to Put Stamp on New Congress By JIM ABRAMS
Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democrats savoring a return from political wilderness are ready to move quickly this week to take the levers of power in a Congress that has been run by Republicans the last 12 years.
On Thursday, Nancy Pelosi will take the gavel as the first woman speaker in the history of the House, and immediately launch a 100 legislative-hour march to quickly put the Democratic stamp on the new Congress.
Before President Bush arrives on Capitol Hill on Jan. 23 for his State of the Union address, House Democrats intend to update ethics rules, raise the minimum wage, implement 9/11 Commission recommendations, cut subsidies to the oil industry, promote stem cell research and make college educations and prescription drugs more affordable.
"Democrats are prepared to govern and ready to lead," said Pelosi, a Californian.
On the first day back, Democrats plan to change House rules on what members can accept from lobbyists. On the second day they'll vote on other rules changes requiring that new spending or tax cuts be paid for and that pet projects tucked into larger bills be publicly disclosed. . . .
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