On the recordJanuary 10, 2019
of course I would repeat my request of the distinguished majority leader whether his objections are absolute. Let me just point this out. We passed the bill that I asked unanimous consent--basically that has been passed nearly unanimously by this body--92 to 6 for these appropriations to pass. The last time I checked the Constitution, that is enough even for a veto override. I don't think anything has changed. These bills have nothing to do--zero to do with the Homeland Security wall issue. Zero. So why doesn't our distinguish majority leader, as the leader of a coequal branch of government, allow us to speak on behalf of our responsibilities under article I of the Constitution? Let us take our action that we can take right now, today, at this very moment, and pass six appropriations bills where there is no controversy whatsoever in this body. Mr. McCONNELL. As I said, Madam President, repeatedly, it will not solve the problem because the President has made it clear he won't sign it. Let me try one more time. Does the Senator, through the Chair-- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senate will come to order. Mr. McCONNELL. Can we have order in the Senate? Does the Senator intend to vote against proceeding to other measures during the government shutdown? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Maryland.
