On other fronts

Almost overlooked a Congressional drama this morning: the "reverse Robin Hood" bill passed in the Senate, but only with Cheney's breaking the tie (he flew back from overseas for the occasion, and a Democratic Senator hobbled in on a walker to be counted), and the ANWAR-drilling amendment was yanked. The House still has to vote on this monstrosity, presumably after the holiday break, and then both will turn from budget-trimming to tax-slashing...

Update: kos has the break-down on votes, strategic scheduling, and other behind-the-scenes considerations on the budget cuts and related measures...