‘Twas the Night Before Congress (Adjourned)

Twas the night before Congress adjourned, when all through the House (and Senate)
Not a person was working, not even a mouse.
The bills were all filed to repeal Obamacare,
In hopes that November soon would be there.

The lawmakers were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of earmarks danced in their heads.
The Obamas in their kerchiefs, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the White House lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Faster than lobbyists used to give up their cash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
(And yet in all of Arlington, not a single snow plow)
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a group of advocates, and they were angry.  Oh dear!

With a little old leader, so lively and quick,
I hoped for a moment it wasn’t old Dick (Cheney)
More rapid than bald eagles his coursers they came,
And they whistled, and shouted and called out by name!

“Now Boehner! Now, Cantor! Now, Pelosi and Ryan!
On, Reid! On, McConnell! On, Murray and Biden!
To the top of the Hill! To the top of the dome!
Now pass a bill! Pass a bill! Or at least pass one!”

As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
My phone starting making a bunch of loud sounds.
The lawmakers held their positions tight in their teeth,
But alas there was word a budget deal has been reached!

The advocates were happy their job (for now) is done,
Time to read the details of the bill to see what battles were won.
As this first session of Congress comes to an end,
More bills that need reauthorizing are just around the bend.

Our advocates won’t give up, they will send more letters,
Right after they donate their festive holiday sweaters.
But before they left I heard them exclaim, “Lawmakers, don’t fight!
Happy Holidays to all, and to all a goodnight!”