(NECN/NBC News: Tracie Potts, Washington) - It's shaping up to be a busy week in Washington - guns, confirmations, and the debt ceiling all on the agenda.
Technically, we already hit the debt ceiling last month, but the administration put off some retirement and disability payments to keep things afloat while congress deals with that, and a push for more gun control.
With inaugural rehearsals underway, the NRA and lawmakers are weighing in on whether congress will pass a ban on assault weapons.
"The likelihood is that they are not going to be able to get an assault weapons ban through this Congress," said NRA President, David Keene.
"Stand alone ban on just gun alone will not in the political reality that we have today will not go anywhere," said Senator Joe Manchin, (D) West Virginia.
Vice President Biden's sitting down with cabinet members Monday to finalize recommendations he would present Tuesday.
Likely among them: universal background checks, restrictions on high-capacity clips, and barring gun sales to the mentally ill.
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Also ahead: Senate confirmation hearings... With Democrats and Republicans still troubled by Defense Nominee Chuck Hagel's views on Iran and israel.
"These are legitimate questions that need to be asked," said Senator John McCain, (R) Arizona.
"Chuck Hagel is a solid guy who speaks his mind. He is a good supporter of Israel. He has been there and the record will show that but he is not reluctant to disagree when he thinks disagreement is appropriate," said Former Secretary of State, Colin Powell.
The House is back Monday. They'll soon have to make decisions on whether America can borrow more money.
We could hit our debt limit as soon as mid-February.
