WASHINGTON (AP) — When the new Republican-controlled House and Senate begin work in January, leaders say there will be votes on some legislation that never came to a vote in the Democratic-led Senate.
Houses Speaker John Boehner (BAY’-nur) says that will include what he calls “common-sense jobs and energy bills” that he says passed the House with bipartisan support.
Legislation to approve the Keystone XL pipeline from Canada is likely to be among the issues debated.
Outgoing Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid says, “The message from voters is clear. They want us to work together.”
The shift in control of the Senate could bring additional pressure on Democrats to accept sweeping changes to Obama’s health care law. It could also affect Obama’s ability to win confirmation for lifetime judicial appointments, including any Supreme Court vacancies.
Republicans swept to control of the Senate and tightened their grip on the House in the midterm elections.
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