Ever had a job where you had to sit at your desk for hours, waiting on the clock, even when there was absolutely no work to be done? That, it seems, is what the Democrats have done to Congress. One Representative was heard to quip, “We’re cramming two days of work into five days.”

But the Democrats insist that Congress work five days a week, apparently just like everyone else, whether there’s anything to do or not.

So, to while away their time, members have resorted to renaming federal buildings, congratulating sports teams, and hearing about heart disease in Guam.

It’s been hard, it seems, for anyone in Congress to stay awake, with such a grueling schedule of doing almost nothing.

So what’s the problem? House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) explains.

“Now, because we have come to a point whereas, you know, the committees have just recently been fully organized, they’re starting to have hearings, but because we have not produced as much legislation — we have been dealing with a lot of work so far,” Hoyer said on the floor, according to an instant transcript of his exchange with Blunt.

Hoyer added that since Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., wants to use regular order — meaning committees review and mark-up bills, which are then sent to the Rules Committee and then the House floor for final passage — it will take time for the Democratic leadership to find its rhythm in crafting a workable floor schedule. — The Politico

It seems the Democrats want Congress in session until at least 2 p.m. every Friday, whether there’s anything to do or not, which has upset west coast members who say they want to meet with constituents on Fridays. Still, Congress has managed to find a few things to fill their time.

Consider yesterday’s schedule for the people’s representatives. Not only did they have to pass [H.Res.] 99, “commending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln volleyball team,” but they had to do it immediately after passing [H.Res.] 72, celebrating the achievements of meteorologist Max Mayfield. Then it was on to legislation in support of the African American spiritual, remembering a deceased NASCAR driver, naming a courthouse in Duluth, Minn., and honoring the grandfather of two congressmen.

That left time for a full debate over the day’s signal legislative achievement: [H.Res.] 130, congratulating the Indianapolis Colts for winning the Super Bowl. — Washington Post

You can help your Representative and Senators occupy their time by writing, calling or e-mailing them. It seems they really are listening; there’s virtually nothing else to do.

And remember well these days when they are doing nothing of serious consequence, for it also means they’re doing no serious damage either. This can’t possibly last.