Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell abandoned his demand that Democrats declare in writing that they would not abandon legislative obstruction.
Between the lines: McConnell would never agree to a 50-50 power-sharing agreement without struggling to keep the 60-vote limit. But the minority leader finally gave in after it became clear that delaying the organization’s resolution was no longer viable.
What we’re hearing: Centrist Democrats Joe Manchin (DW.V.) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) In particular indicated to McConnell their long-held opinions that they would not vote to end the obstruction, two sources familiar with the talks told Axios.
- McConnell took these promises as an emergency exit, as well as an advantage to use on members in case Democrats address the issue in the coming months.
- McConnell will give a longer view on the obstruction in his comments on Tuesday.
What are they saying: “Today, two Democratic senators have publicly confirmed that they will not vote to end legislative obstruction, “McConnell said in a statement late on Monday.
- “With these guarantees, I hope to move forward with a power-sharing agreement based on that precedent.”
- Schumer Spokesperson Justin Goodman said in a subsequent statement: “We are glad that Senator McConnell threw in the towel and gave up on his ridiculous demand. We hope to organize the Senate under Democratic control and start doing big and bold things for the American people. ”
What is the next: Expect a detailed power-sharing deal to be announced this week, modeled after the 2001 Senate deal between Senators Tom Daschle and Trent Lott.