Tensions boiled over on the Senate floor Monday as senators debated a mammoth coronavirus stimulus package.
The normally clubby atmosphere was gone as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) opened the chamber with a blistering speech, Democrats temporary blocked Republicans from speaking and one senator was overheard calling the exchange “bullshit.”
McConnell eviscerated Democrats during his speech, at one point asking, “are you kidding me?”
“It is time for Democrats to stop playing politics and step up to the plate,” McConnell added.
But the frustrations only escalated from there.
When Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) tried to get permission to speak, Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) objected.
“This is unbelievable,” Collins could be overheard saying on the floor, before going to consult with GOP leadership.
Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) then tried to speak, but Schumer similarly objected.
The tactics sparked vocal pushback from Republican senators who were on be floor.
Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), who was standing at the front of the chamber, could be overheard calling the maneuvers “bullshit.”
Schumer then tried to consent to speak, and Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho), who was in his seat at the back of the chamber, yelled that he also objected.
When Schumer tried to argue that he still has control of the floor, Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), who was presiding over the floor drama, replied: “No, you do not.”
McConnell and Schumer eventually reached an agreement to allow for senators to give speeches before a key procedural vote.
But the frustration continued to play out, as Collins used her speech to call Democrats blocking the bill, which they say was drafted only by Republicans, “disgraceful.”
Collins also walked over to directly confront Schumer while he was still on the floor, leaning toward him and pointing her finger at him.
“You are objecting to my speaking? This is appalling!” she said.
As Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) was speaking, Risch tried at multiple points to ask a question.
“Time remains on the Republican side. They can use it as they wish,” Durbin replied. “I allowed the senator from South Dakota to finish his. I hope you’ll show that same respect.”