"Maybe after the elections we can get some more Republicans to help us on these issues," Reid, a Democrat, told reporters in a teleconference on Tuesday.

But passing any major legislation this year will be an uphill struggle. With Republicans eyeing gains in November 2 elections, Democrats may face fierce campaign opposition on all major initiatives.

The modest energy bill that Reid introduced in late July sought to reform oil drilling after the massive BP Plc crude oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico. It also included incentives for energy efficiency in homes and alternative vehicles fueled by natural gas and electricity.

Reid said at the time that there were no Republican votes for climate measures such as a cap-and-trade market on greenhouse gases or a renewable electricity standard, which would require utilities to generate minimum levels of power from sources such as wind turbines and solar cells. The bill would require 60 votes to pass.

Still, Reid was hopeful some Republican senators may have more freedom to vote for the bill after the elections in which they may regain control.