Republicans plan to press Senate Democrats for a speedy lame-duck session that could wrap up by the end of next week, CongressDaily reports.

Senate Minority Leader Trent Lott (R-MS), who is expected to become majority leader in the 108th Congress, said the lame duck is scheduled to begin Nov. 12, with Democrats in control.

But Republicans could take control of the special session as soon as Missouri's secretary of state certifies Republican Sen.-elect Jim Talent - or if Minnesota officials decide to seat Sen.-elect Norm Coleman, a Republican, to fill the remainder of the term of the late Sen. Paul Wellstone.

Lott said he is "not an advocate" of lame-duck sessions, said he would like to pass a continuing resolution that funds the government until February or March.

He said he hoped to complete legislation creating a Homeland Security Department in the coming weeks, but acknowledged the issue probably would slide into next year. In addition to that bill, Lott said his priorities in 2003 would include passing a budget resolution, pension and welfare reform, permanent tax reductions and another tax package.