The Mighty Lame Ducks

Traditionally, congress rides out the last couple months after an election year taking extended vacations, buying gifts for the holidays or tying up personal loose ends. Traditionally. The 111th Congress has completely bucked the trend by passing not one or two special interest bills, but by putting in overtime to pass monumental legislation. First, was the extension of tax cuts for all Americans and the extension of unemployment benefits, then there was the long awaited repeal of the Don't Ask Don't Tell Bill. Earlier this week, the bipartisan congress revamped and passed the START Treaty with Russia, and this morning many first responders, firefighters and police officers woke up to an early Christmas present; the signing of the Zadroga Bill. The bill provides health services and financial compensation to those who worked tirelessly at ground zero after the twin towers were attacked.
What a way to end President Obama's first half of the presidency! Its times like this when Americans from both sides hunker down and really work with The People in mind. Yes, compromises were made and not everyone got everything they wanted, however, this congress was able to get important things done on a tight deadline. Yes, the blockage of the DREAM Act was a crushing defeat, but I think the bill will pass in the near future especially with the speculation on the 2014 end date for Afghanistan. There is still much work to be done, but I hope the 112th Congress can take a cue from the 111th, let's not go back to seperatist, hard nosed mentality when it comes to getting things done.