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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhen I wondered aloud whether I was becoming too cynical about the current Congress, a fellow congressional reporter responded: “Is that possible?”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the time, we both chuckled, agreeing that the last few Congresses have caused many to redefine the depths of cynicism. Turns out the answer actually is yes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I had this affirmation seconds after the Senate Foreign Relations Committee voted 19-0 to send the full chamber a bill that sets the stage for a congressional review and vote on any deal between six world powers and Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Didn’t see that coming,” I muttered to myself as Chairman Bob Corker, R-Tenn., gaveled closed a meeting on the legislation after the unanimous, bipartisan vote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my last column, I wrote: “On holding a vote on Iran’s nuclear program, there’s bipartisan support. But will both chambers actually ever vote? There are reasons to harbor doubts.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., says he might put the Iran bill on the floor as soon as this week. And House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said once the Senate has acted, House GOP leaders intend to bring it to the floor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It now appears the Iran legislation \u2014 pushed over the finish line by Corker and new committee Ranking Member Ben Cardin, D-Md. \u2014 could sail through both chambers with strong support from both parties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n