Al Franken objects to Joe Lieberman talking
Sen. Joe Lieberman just wanted an "additional moment" on the floor Thursday to finish his speech about health care.
But when he asked for unanimous consent to finish his remarks, Democratic Sen. Al Franken wouldn't let him.
"In my capacity as the senator from Minnesota, I object," said Franken, who shrugged his shoulders as he was presiding over the Senate.
"Really?" Lieberman asked, flashing a grin. "Don't take it personally," as he was granted consent to include the rest of his remarks in the congressional record.
Franken didn't take it personally, leadership aides and his office said. Both said that the leadership is strictly enforcing a 10-minute speaking rule, an unusual move that is irking long-winded senators.
Jim Manley, a spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, said the objection was not directed at Lieberman, who is the source of liberal ire for his position on the health care bill.
"We did that to maintain order and that no senator had an unfair advantage over another in terms of speaking," Manley said. "It was a simple request of the leader and Sen. Franken was adhering to the request of his leadership."
Earlier on the floor, Sen. Mark Begich (D-Alaska), presiding over the Senate, objected to Sen. John Cornyn's (R-Texas) request for additional time to speak — clearly annoying Cornyn.
Begich later withdrew his objection and allowed Cornyn to finish speaking.
Sources: Politico
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