J Town 11/08, with News You Might Have Missed

In his first post-election press conference in the Capitol on Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid made no hard demands.

But he did make one thing abundantly clear. Democrats aren’t going to re-enter hostage-style negotiations with House Republicans over raising the debt ceiling when the time comes early next year.

“They tried it before — we’re going to shut down the government, we’re not going to raise the debt limit,” Reid told reporters. They want to go through that again? Fine. But we’re not going to be held subject to something that was done as a matter of fact in all previous administrations.”

In his first post-election press conference, the Nevada Democrat said he wouldn't go so far as to eliminate the filibuster, which requires 60 votes for the chamber to enter and exit the amendment and debate process. But in remarks meant to preview a more combative approach during the next session, he warned Republicans that obstructionism as a tactic won't be tolerated -- or as technically feasible.

"I do" have plans to change the Senate rules, he added. "I have said so publicly and I continue to feel that way ... I think the rules have been abused, and we are going to work to change them. We will not do away with the filibuster, but we will make the senate a more meaningful place. We are going to make it so we can get things done."