House Expects to Clear Payroll Tax Cut Today

The payroll tax cut deal is expected to be ratified today, with congressional leaders planning voice votes that would require just a handful of members to be present, the Washington Post reports. Politico notes that the House will be using unanimous consent rules, however, meaning a dissenting member could force a vote next week. Because of the timing, disapproving members will have a hard time making it back to DC in time, but there are at least two who may object and force House members to return next week.

Even so, President Obama is happy: “This is good news, just in time for the holidays,” he said in a statement after the deal was struck yesterday. “This is the right thing to do to strengthen our families, grow our economy, and create new jobs. This is real money that will make a real difference in people’s lives.” Politico notes that when announcing the deal in a conference call with House Republicans, John Boehner “laid down the law” in order to prevent the agreement from being scuttled by his caucus. Much more on the behind-the-scenes dealings here. (More payroll taxes stories.)