Rules Changes Must Allow for More Open Process in the House

By Norman Ornstein
Roll Call Contributing Writer

Jan. 7, 2009, 12 a.m.

President-elect Barack Obama has some huge assets to bring to bear as he tries to rapidly enact an enormously ambitious agenda that includes a huge stimulus package and major health care reform. His sweeping election victory has been followed by a sky-high approval rating as his inauguration approaches. He had major league coattails, with his party moving to comfortable majorities in both chambers of Congress, the best numbers since Bill Clinton assumed the presidency in 1993.

Schumer Advocates for Many on Panel

Nov. 16, 12 a.m.

As Senate Majority Leader, Lyndon Johnson once said of the Joint Economic Committee, “It’s as useless as tits on a bull.” But as that panel’s chairman during the 110th Congress, Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) seized the opportunity to elevate the traditionally low-profile post to the forefront of shaping policy. Read Full Article