From: CNN
In: Washington
Posted 6-9-97

Subject: Daschle Threatens To Move Sessions Into The Halls Of The Capitol

Senate Democrat leader Tom Daschle says he may hold mock sessions off the Senate floor to draw attention to the stalled disaster relief bill. Daschle (D-SD), said if Republicans don't send the measure to President Clinton, he is ready to hold forums and telecommunication conferences on Tuesday with people who are waiting for the funds.

At a news conference Monday, Daschle even offered to help Republicans get the bill to the White House saying he "would carry it down from the Speaker's desk" to speed the process up.

Daschle says he is not "going to allow our Republican colleagues to take the focus off this disaster legislation."

The President has threatened to veto the supplemental spending bill because of several other issues that have been attached to it. Daschle said there were weekend talks between Republican Senate leader Trent Lott (R-MS) and White House officials on areas where compromise might possibly be reached. Daschle said no decisions were made.

Daschle also held out hope on another sticking point between Democrats and Republicans in the Senate. He repeated concerns of frustration among Democrats on the Government Affairs Committee investigating campaign finance allegations.