Democrats in Congress are trying to make sure their members go home for a week-long break with a good amount of political ammunition against Republicans on the issue of long term jobless benefits, which started running out on June 1st.

The latest move came in the House on Tuesday, as Democrats forced a vote on an extension of just the long term benefits through the end of November, at a cost of $33 billion.

"Congressional Republicans refused to extend a lifeline to millions of Americans who lost their jobs through no fault of their own," complained Speaker Nancy Pelosi, as she accused the GOP of "putting partisan politics ahead of the public well-being."

There was actually a majority in favor of the bill in the House, as lawmakers voted 261-155 in favor of the plan, but because it was done under a special expedited process, it needed a two-thirds vote, which would have been 278 ayes.

So, that bill will come up again today for a vote, allowing Democrats to say that they have acted repeatedly, and that the blame for inaction goes on those pesky Republicans.

The GOP most certainly sees it differently, arguing that the $33 billion plan should be paid for with offsetting budget cuts, something Democrats have steadfastly refused to do.

The House yesterday also approved a bill that would extend until September 30 of this year, the popular homebuyers tax credit, which was responsible for a big boost in home sales earlier this year.

It's unclear if the Senate will be able to act on either of those items this week before going home for a July 4th break, but Democrats laid the parliamentary groundwork last night for at least one more 60 vote/cloture vote on the jobless benefits matter.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid also started the parliamentary machinations on the homebuyer's bill as well.

But there isn't much time left - even though it is only Wednesday.

Tomorrow, the body of the late Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) will lie in repose on the Senate floor for much of the day.  His funeral is Friday in Charleston, West Virginia, and many Senators will travel there, along with President Obama and Vice President Biden.

That means there will be little legislative work this week in the Senate after sundown tonight.