Virginia: Brat boosts balanced budget. In response to lots of constituent opposition to deficit spending, expressed to members of Congress during the spring recess, the House of Representatives is set to vote tomorrow on a constitutional amendment requiring the nation to adopt a balanced budget. While the amendment is given very poor prospects of becoming law, US Rep. David Brat (R) told The Hill, “If nothing else, it will at least showcase who is voting which way, even if it doesn’t go through. Its valuable to show the American people who is for fiscal responsibility.” ……. Tennessee: Alexander endorses Blackburn. US Sen. Lamar Alexander (R), long a prominent GOP moderate, last week tweeted his endorsement of hardline conservative US Rep. Marsha Blackburn for the US Senate for the seat to be vacated by another prominent GOP centrist, US Rep. Bob Corker (R). Corker will wait until after the Republican Primary before making an endorsement ……. Louisiana: Scalise, McCarthy maneuver to succeed Ryan. Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) and House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) are beginning what The Hill calls a “shadow campaign” to succeed House Speaker Paul Ryan (R) in the event he steps down after the November elections. Much could depend on President Trump’s choice for the job …….