Movement on the Senate’s defense authorization bill has been unusually slow Wednesday afternoon, as a tussle over several GOP amendments has stalled the legislation’s progress.

One GOP aide said Democrats are holding up several Republican amendments, which have complicated the desired early passage of the defense bill.

Sen. Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) is trying to offer an amendment that would take out language in the bill on earmarks that were added during the committee report. Reid could offer a unanimous consent request that would allow votes on amendments, but Republicans would likely object if it did not include DeMint’s or others that Democrats are uncomfortable with, the GOP aide said.

One top Democratic aide help out hope that Armed Services Chairman Carl Levin (D-Mich.) could reach agreement with Republicans before the night is out.