Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) tried to break the impasse Thursday on the tax-extender bill, but Republicans blocked his effort to bring it to the floor.

Reid said there wasn’t much time before the Senate recesses, and the tax bill must be passed soon.

“Let’s get the work done that we need to get done,” he said.

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) rejected the unanimous consent agreement because he is negotiating with the Finance Committee to get more financial aid for his state after Hurricane Ike. Cornyn added that a deal might be reached soon, clearing the way for the bill.

An irritated Reid said Cornyn could get more assistance for his constituents in the continuing resolution. Calling Cornyn’s actions “unfair,” Reid said the delay is not giving the House enough time to pass the bill.

“We need to pass this piece of legislation now,” Reid insisted.