Senator Cruz objects to Budget conference

This afternoon and for the 15^th time (Senator Murray has asked 7 times and other Democrats have asked 8 times) since March 23^rd when Senate passed a budget resolution, Senator Murray asked unanimous consent the Senate proceed to the consideration of Calendar #33, H.Con.Res.25; the amendment at the desk, which is the text of S.Con.Res.8, the budget resolution passed by the Senate, be inserted in lieu thereof; and that H.Con.Res.25, as amended, be agreed to. Further, that the Senate insist on its amendment, request a conference with the House on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses; and the Chair be authorized to appoint conferees on the part of the Senate; and that following the authorization, two motions to instruct conferees be in order from each side:

- Motion to instruct relative to the debt limit; and

- Motion to instruct relative to taxes/revenue;

That there be two hours of debate equally divided between the two Leaders, or their designees, prior to votes in relation to the motions; further, that no amendments be in order to either of the motions prior to the votes; all of the above occurring with no intervening action or debate.

Senator Cruz asked that the request be modified so that it not be in order for the Senate to consider a conference report that includes reconciliation instructions to raise the debt limit. Senator Murray objected to Senator Cruz's modification because she offered the senator a vote on a motion to instruct conferees on the debt limit. Finally, Senator Cruz objected to Senator Murray's original request.