The Problem Solvers Caucus will release a package of rules reforms on Wednesday that are intended to make the House more bipartisan and inclusive.
The proposals from the 48-member caucus, which promotes bipartisan initiatives, include giving fast-track consideration to any bill with widespread support and making it harder to oust the House Speaker.
Caucus members have said they will promote the suggestions when they head home for the August recess, after a tumultuous month in Congress marked by inaction on the issue of family separations at the border and by partisan bickering over Russia.To add spine to the proposals, the caucus is seeking an ambitious pledge from lawmakers in both parties: Don’t support the next Speaker unless the candidate replacing retiring Speaker Paul Ryan
Paul Davis RyanProblem Solvers Caucus has a vision: a bipartisan House Overnight Defense: Trump tells veterans he will 'stand up for America' | McConnell, Ryan say Putin not welcome on Capitol Hill | Mattis tries to explain Trump's Iran tweet Lobbying world MORE[2][3][4][5][6][1] (R-Wis.) agrees to enact the rule changes.
That part of the strategy could prove difficult, though caucus members are supportive.
Caucus co-Chairman Tom Reed
Thomas (Tom) W. ReedProblem Solvers Caucus has a vision: a bipartisan House Congress: Support access to palliative care for aging Americans Overnight Health Care: Trump officials explore importing prescription drugs | Key ObamaCare, drug pricing regs under review | GOP looks to blunt attacks on rising premiums | Merck to lower some drug prices MORE[8][9][10][11][12][7] (R-N.Y.) has said he is willing to withhold his votes for Speaker unless the rule changes are agreed to, according to an aide familiar with internal discussions. And Rep. Mike Coffman
Michael (Mike) Howard CoffmanProblem Solvers Caucus has a vision: a bipartisan House Hillicon Valley: Trump tries to quell Russia furor | Sparks fly at hearing on social media | First House Republican backs net neutrality bill | Meet the DNC's cyber guru | Sinclair defiant after merger setback The Hill's 12:30 Report — Trump faces bipartisan criticism over Putin presser, blames media for coverage MORE[14][15][16][17][18][13] (R-Colo.) told The Hill he is “absolutely” willing to make such a commitment.
“We care about reforming the institution so that Congress is actually able to get things done for the people back home,” Reed said.
“Due to the House floor being controlled by a select few, most members of Congress are not able to bring their ideas and proposals to the House floor for a fair vote that would allow us to begin solving some of the most contentious issues facing our country today.”
With a slim majority expected no matter which party wins the House in the November midterm elections, the group...