The Senate worked today on the START arms reduction treaty with Russia. Earlier, the Senate voted on amendments by Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK), Sen. John Thune (R-SD) and George LeMieux (R-FL). The Senate defeated all three amendments that were aimed at increasing the number of inspections allowed, as well as the number of nuclear delivery systems defined in the treaty.
Yesterday, Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) told CNN that he would not vote for the treaty because, in his estimation, it gives Russia a strategic advantage over the U.S.
In that same interview Sen. McConnell went on to say that an agreement to keep the government running into March had been agreed to. However, Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) clarified the situation, telling senators that an agreement on the continuing resolution was “close,” but not complete. If the Senate can approve of a CR then the House can add the measure on its schedule for consideration.
On Sunday, Sen. Reid also expressed optimism that the 9/11 health care bill for first responders could be taken up before the Senate session comes to a close.