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Senators Called to the Floor for Rare Live Quorum

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) forced a rare live quorum in the chamber Monday night in an effort to stage a full-scale debate on Democrats’ outsourcing legislation.

The live quorum, which essentially forces the bulk of Congress’ 100 Senators to the floor, is part of a late push by Democrats to highlight their economic legislative priorities, as well as GOP obstruction, ahead of the midterm Congressional elections.

At 7 p.m., Reid forced the start of the live quorum with a vote to instruct the Sergeant-at-Arms to request all Members to come to the floor.

It is unclear how long most Members will remain on the floor, but the two parties appear set to duke it out until at least 11 p.m. Monday. Aides in both parties said a sizable number of lawmakers would remain on the floor for most of the debate.

Reid has indicated that if too many Members abandon the floor, he could force another live quorum vote during Monday night’s session.

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