This is a classic dirty trick in politics. Organize an unpopular vote when a lot of the voters have left for xmas holidays. Just make sure there's a majority left when the vote is on. As an example: the federal reserve act was established in the same way on the days before xmas when a lot of the opposition had already left for holidays.
Since it's holiday season, the news will be a lot quieter than usual and the public can be left in the dark.
It seems to me like the opponents (there are only a few anyway) in the House are just as eager to attend this vote as the proponents. So perhaps I am missing the deviousness?
Plus, since more people are at home during the holidays, wouldn't more people actually be watching the news?
(I'm not saying there isn't a well funded conspiracy to get this bill passed at any means possible, but it seems that we may be seeking out things to get angry about)
Since it's holiday season, the news will be a lot quieter than usual and the public can be left in the dark.