How many do you need for a quorum in the Senate?

[Dr.Phool]

I'm wondering if the Dems are staging a walkout on the Repukes.

I just flipped on c-span2 about an hour ago, and there was a dispute over an amendment. Senator Conrad (D-ND) had an amendment he wanted for emergency farm aid, and the Repubs were going to kill it.

Burns said that if they tried he'd play hardball with them. And a minute later and several quorum calls later Prick Santorum was in a snit, and nothing has still happened.

Maybe we found a way to roast some lame ducks?

[kiahzero]

1. 51 Senators have to be present. (n/t)

[TechBear_Seattle]

2. Article I, Section 5, para. 1, US Constitution

Each House shall be the judge of the elections, returns and qualifications of its own members, and a majority of each shall constitute a quorum to do business; but a smaller number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the attendance of absent members, in such manner, and under such penalties as each House may provide.

:hi:

[abluelady]

3. The Quorum Call is a Ploy

Anytime finagling needs to be done, a quorum call is asked for. The Senate does not need 51 people to do business. One night I watched Senator John Warner all by himself make a statement. Now for a vote, it is a different story.

[longship]

4. Quorum call is used for other purposes.

It brings debate to a close while members tackle other things, like negotiate, etc.

It serves as a place holder and as a pause to the proceedings, nothing else.