BUNNING BREAKS!

Embattled Sen. Jim Bunning, R-Kentucky, finally caved to popular sentiment last night and ended his bizarre stalemate over the extension of unemployment benefits for millions of jobless Americans.

The extension required unanimous consent for passage because Democrats labeled it an emergency spending measure. But for several days, the undeterred Bunning continued a repetitive rejection against the wishes of Democrats and Republicans alike. Since he is retiring at the end of this year, Bunning said he opposed extending the programs because he didn’t want to add to the deficit. Democrats argued that, because it is an emergency measure, this was neither the time nor place to be making a point on the backs of unemployed Americans who may be on the brink of financial crisis. 

Bunning’s bitterness had begun to create cracks among the ranks of his own party.  On Tuesday morning moderate Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, became the first Republican to attempt an override of the objection of Sen. Bunning.  Sen. Collins took to the floor shortly after the Senate convened to say her effort was being made on “behalf of numerous members of the Republican caucus who have expressed concerns to me.  There are 500 Mainers whose benefits expired on Sunday,” Ms. Collins said.  Another GOP Senator who declined to be identified said Republicans are “furious” with Bunning. “This plays right into the Democratic narrative that we’re obstructionist,” the Senator said. “We look insensitive.  To say Bunning is not beloved is an understatement.”

Apparently, all the brow beating paid off.  In a late Tuesday night deal, Bunning, the 78-year-old Hall of Fame pitcher turned Senator, ended his obstructionist ways, dropped his objections, and stepped out of the way.  This means unemployment benefits will be extended, stimulus workers will be allowed back to stalled projects, and Cobra insurance assistance programs will be reinstated.  Job well done!