Congressman Walz just concluded his weekly press call. He talked about the new House rule that created the independent House ethics panel, the new house FISA bill that will be voted on later today, and (briefly) the Farm Bill.
Walz stressed that a vote against the new House rule shouldn't be politicized to suggest that a "no" votes was a vote against ethics, but that representative's concerns about the rule. He disagrees (obviously) with their position, but respected that difference.
He's pleased with seeing the reform move from a small "lonely" group of ten supporters last April to being a rule in the House. Since minority leader Boehner and Speaker PElosi both need to agree on all six panel members, it may take time for the panel to be up and operating, but Walz hopes it will be at work in two months.
Some Minnesotans are being asked if they'd like to serve on the panel, Walz said, though he mentioned no name for potential nominations. A press member brought up one former elected official, but we'll let our colleague pursue that lead.
The 2002 Farm Bill has been extended until mid-April; Walz hopes that the new bill will be completed by then since many constituencies around the country have worked to get the legislation to this point.
Most importantly, Walz said he will vote for the new FISA bill when it comes to the House floor, mostly likely this afternoon. We'll post more about this important legislation in a bit.
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