The House debate over the wage was limited, as most lawmakers spent their floor time arguing over Iraq spending.

The lawmakers have also spent time mapping out talking points and legislative strategies.

As lawmakers spend next week in their home states, some will be greeted by the ads opposing private investment accounts for the Social Security system.

He said lawmakers spend too much time and effort on raising money and not enough on policy.

But lawmakers have already spent dividends that have not yet arrived.

This year, in the 100th Congress, lawmakers have already spent 1,118 hours in session and responded to 387 roll-call votes.

"The whole notion that lawmakers spend much time at lunches with lobbyists is greatly exaggerated," he said.

We shouldn't let fantasies about huge surpluses lead lawmakers to spend money that will never materialize.

By day, lawmakers spent most of this week debating legislation that would have significantly curbed campaign spending.

He predicted that lawmakers would spend more time than usual listening to each other when they return this week.