Yesterday, it was reported that Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL), one of the most powerful members of the GOP caucus, has placed a blanket hold on "at least 70" of President Obama's nominees. A self-described fiscal conservative, Shelby is apparently holding the nominees hostage in order to secure expensive earmarks for his home state.

Despite attempting to reframe themselves as the party of everyday Americans, the GOP is intent on going to bat for the Wall Street bankers whose irresponsible behavior brought down America's economy.

For months, Republicans have blamed President Obama for the partisan gridlock in Washington. Despite the fact that the president has repeatedly reached across the aisle, Republican leaders maintain that he has refused to listen to their ideas. However, Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI) inadvertently admitted yesterday that the Republican spin isn't true.