Two developments yesterday that are impacting the 2007 congressional end game this month. First, Democrats appear to have reached a deal (i.e. caved) on FY 2008 appropriations: From BNA ($): Democratic leaders agree in principle to try to meet President Bush's proposed spending target for the 2008 fiscal year, potentially setting aside one of the main stumbling blocks to a deal to wrap up a drawn-out fight over appropriations. However, the bill may not come up for consideration until next week. Despite the major concession by Democrats, other potential issues that could hinder a final agreement—short-term funding for the war in Iraq and various policy provisions—appear unresolved and a short-term continuing resolution is expected, to keep the government funded through Dec. 21 Also, the House has passed another fully paid-for, one-year AMT patch. Also from BNA ($): The House, in defiance of the White House and Senate, passes a second revenue-neutral patch for the AMT, but also—for the second time—fails to secure a veto-proof margin. The bill passes by 226-193, with three Democrats crossing party lines to vote with Republicans in opposition to the bill. So it looks right now that President Bush is getting his way on making cuts to important domestic investments that will negatively impact millions of Americans but make no difference in promoting fiscal responsibility and also may also get his way in actively opposing long-term fiscal responsibility by forcing Congress to pass another $50 billion tax cut that will add to the debt. It's dark times in Washington these days. Happy Holidays!