This isn't the first time they have used these types of tactics. They did something similar with Wendy Davis when she was filibustering in Austin, and actually twisted the rule interpretations to fit their agenda.
I am still amazed this didn't get more media coverage.
They secretly, (without notice to both Senate and House) changed the rules so a forced vote could not happen. Many Republicans have said if the vote was introduced to the floor they would vote to end the shutdown.
This truly is the end of Democracy in this country when you have a party blocking our democratic process (at the voter polls and within their house and senate floor).
Unbelievable: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Jd-i...&feature=share