So it appears the Joe Manchin (and likely Kirstein Sinema) won't support ending the filibuster for the organizing resolution that puts the full Senate under Dem control. He also inexplicably *supports* Schumer's refusal to rule out ditching the filibuster.
2/ This is an absurd situation to be in. But there's a path forward. When someone is breaking the rules, being a dick or generally just coming at you the one thing you can never go is be passive. You ...
3/ must take the initiative. Currently Chuck Schumer controls the floor and the senate calendar. Committees are still chaired by the Republicans. It will stay that way until the organizing resolution dispute is settled. McConnell has zero incentive to settle it.
4/ But the key importance of the committees right now is getting nominations approved. So here's what to do. The majority leader can bring nominations directly to the floor for a vote, bypassing the committees. This is an extreme move and it seldom happens ...
5/ since the majority leader is the leader of the party that controls the committees. Except for now. So Schumer should announce that as long as the stand off continues and committees are not properly organized, he'll bring all nominations directly to the floor for votes ...
6/ bypassing the committees. Only a temporary expedient. As soon as they have an agreement they'll go back to the normal process. This both addresses the immediate needs of the country and gives the minority an incentive to negotiate in good faith.
7/ Words and outrage mean nothing. Action counts. With the committee issue resolve the Senate can move on to doing the country's business.
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