Trivial Filibuster
Republicans blocked the clear will of the Senate yet again with successful filibusters of bills that would have granted DC residents a vote in the House, and would restore Habeus Corpus rights of detainees at Guantanamo. The bills were supported by margins of 15 and 13 votes, respectively, but fell a few short of the 60 needed to end debate. Don't worry though - it's just the representative principle at the heart of our democracy, and the fundamental right to confront your accuser - you know, the one that has been the linchpin of modern civilized justice systems for the last 750 years. Who needs em, right? Kevin Drum has more.