Daily Briefing: A Push Back?
Bushrenews call to ban gay marriage; social conservatives cheer the "litmus test" as critics contend the move is mainly political.James Dobson: "It is true what this vote will do will be to help the voters identify who is and is not supportive of the family, and I think those that are not are going to have to answer for it." [ WP , NYT , USAT ]
This week's Senate agenda, from the ban on gay marriage to a repeal of the estate tax, is "all about" motivating conservative voters. Sen.Russ Feingold(D-Wis.) on the marriage amendment: "I am confident that the American people will see this for what it is: a mean-spirited attempt to score political points in an election year." [ WP , W$J ]
Intense campaigning is already underway for the midterm election, "reflecting a consensus in both parties that Republicans could lose control of the House and perhaps the Senate"; Republicans have spent at least $4.5M on today's special election forRandy Cunningham's seat. [ NYT , W$J ]
Congress and the courts "are beginning to push back against what has been the greatest expansion of presidential powers in a generation or more." [ USAT ]
Bill Clintonhopes to raise over $20M for midterm campaigns. [ NYT ]
Lawmakers have accepted about $50M in free trips since 2000, nonpartisan study finds. [ WP , NYT ]
David Safaviantestifies that he provided "a lot of insight and advice" toJack Abramoff; denies violating ethics rules. [ USAT ]
Rep.Patrick Kennedyfeels "positive" after a month at the Mayo Clinic. [ NYT ]