The political backdrop
 
Each Congress generally has two regular sessions (a first and second), based on the constitutional mandate that Congress assemble at least once each year. The second session of each Congress usually provides a limited period for legislating before election-year politics overwhelms even the most bipartisan efforts. This session will surely not disappoint those who view politics as a contact sport.
 
Historically, the party in control of the White House during its second term has struggled during mid-term elections. Thus, Election 2006 could be the most challenging for congressional Republicans since 1994 ...