Republicans, Democrats come together in support of FY 2011 intelligence bill

Ruppersberger acknowledged the compliment and thanked her for her comments about working together.

“The Intelligence Committee is a bipartisan committee that works together,” he said. “The stakes are too high for us not to work together, and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

While Democrats indicated support for the bill, Ruppersberger and Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-Fla.) said they would oppose the rule for the bill because it does not allow for consideration of all amendments. However, Ruppersberger said he would support the bill in part because it adds necessary resources to intelligence agencies, even though it cuts overall intelligence spending by $47 million.

Bachmann said the bill also calls for more congressional oversight of intelligence spending, which she said is needed in light of the fiscal crisis.

“The American people have made it clear … they want this Congress to exercise the utmost seriousness when dealing with our nation’s spending crisis,” she said. “And so this bill is a step in that direction. It ensures that there is proper congressional financial oversight.”

A vote on the rule for the bill is expected early Thursday afternoon. The House is expected to conclude debate on the bill and various amendments by Friday.