Senate Democrats say their hand was forced by unprecedented Republican obstructionism, but Collins calls the change a ‘terrible mistake.’
Elections
U.S. Senate votes to curb filibusters
The move comes as Republicans use filibusters at unprecedented rates: Of the 168 filibusters in history against presidential nominees, half have been by Republicans in the last four-plus years.
House Republicans to let immigration reform bill die
The quiet death comes four months after the Senate passed a bipartisan, far-reaching agreement.
NH legislator co-sponsors bill to lower taxes for craft brewers
The proposal would reduce federal excise taxes for breweries that produce fewer than 6 million barrels annually.
Senate approves landmark gay rights legislation
But despite the bipartisan vote, chances are dim that the House will pass or even vote on the bill.
Maine moms, activists rally for changes in chemical safety bill
Critics say a bill in the Senate would undermine states’ efforts to protect consumers.
Jesse Jackson Jr. begins serving prison term
The former Illinois congressman was sentenced to 2½ years for illegally spending $750,000 in campaign money.
Shenna Bellows launches effort to unseat Susan Collins
The Democrat, the first to challenge the popular incumbent U.S. senator, is in her first run for office.
Maine Sen. King offers to be bridge between parties
He calls the shutdown ‘ridiculous and totally unnecessary.’
House Republicans cancel vote on debt deal
The pressure is now on Senate leaders to end the government shutdown and avoid default.