House Republicans Stage Walkout, Refuse To Vote On Contempt Charges
House Republicans Stage Walkout, Refuse To Vote On Contempt Charges
Today, House Democrats attempted to hold a vote on contempt charges for White House Chief of Staff Josh Bolten and former White House counsel Harriet Miers, who refused to respond to subpoenas in Congress’s investigation of the U.S. attorney scandal.
On the House floor today, House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-OH) led Republicans in a walkout in protest of the contempt vote, alleging it is a “partisan fishing expedition.” The GOP is pushing for the House to approve the Senate’s version of the Protect America Act, which includes retroactive immunity for telecommunications firms. Boehner declared:
We will not stand for this, and we will not stay for this. And I would ask my House Republican colleagues and those who believe we should be protecting the American people, to not vote on this bill. Let’s just get up and leave. (Applause)
Watch Boehner’s remarks and the walkout:
Boehner led the GOP outside to the steps of the Capitol, where he held a press conference. He continued President Bush’s fearmongering by bellowing that the “number one objective as members of Congress is to protect the American people and if the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act were to expire, Americans would be at risk.” Watch it:
Boehner never mentions that his caucus voted against an extension of the Protect America Act yesterday, even though he is now threatening that “Americans would be at risk” if it expires.
UPDATE: Read House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s (D-CA) statement regarding the House Protect America Act vote here. Pelosi is also currently holding an alternate press conference.
UPDATE II: Even without the Republicans, the House contempt vote against Miers and Bolten passed, 223-32.
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Republicans can be so proud of the maturity and respect for the law of their Congressional representatives, can’t they?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:10 pmPetulent children act more responsibly than Boner and his HardOns.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:10 pmGrow up and just vote NO, more Ons.
nice tan.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:13 pmDid Boehner tear up when he left the podium??
So… penalizing people for not responding to subpoenas is some form of partisan stunt?
Interesting interpretation of the law.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:13 pmDid Boehner cry when he said that?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:14 pmHe left crying all the way.
If the Dems want to find them, they are all in the bathroom stalls down the hall….tap, tap, tap….tap….tap, tap….tappy, tap, tap.
Now if we could get these criminals who have no respect for the constitution to just leave permanently.
Buck Fush
February 14th, 2008 at 2:15 pmUnPhuckingbelievable!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:15 pmLet me get this straight. Republicans in Congress walked out to protest the Constitutional powers of Congress?
I’m so confused.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:16 pmWell, since they are a minority in the house, if all Democrats voted for it, it will pass even without the Repukes.
And call your congress-person and tell them “Hell No” on telco immunity.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:17 pmProtect the Party. Don’t protect the People. GOP family values.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:17 pmSo they walk out (partisan stunt) to protest contempt charges against those who won’t come before congress to answer questions.
Oh how scared the republicans are.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:18 pmSimple quiz. Which is the partisan stunt?
a. Voting on contempt charges for people who fail to answer subpoenas to testify before congress.
b. Getting up and walking out on the aforementioned vote.
Answer: The people of this nation pay you to vote, not stage partisan drama.
Its sad that their leadership is more effective than ours…They may be a bunch of hypocritical crybabies, but at least they take a stand.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:18 pmThey think we’re holding Meiers in contempt to make America safe? lol
February 14th, 2008 at 2:18 pm“We will not stand for this, and we will not stay for this… Let’s just get up and leave.”
And, please, do us all a favor and don’t bother to come back.
I have little doubt that your constituencies will save you the trouble of having to worry your beautiful minds about such issues in the future when your terms are up.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:19 pmWhy not just vote without them? It would make things a heckofalot easier. And can we get the Democrats to do the same thing with Telco immunity?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:19 pmthen the dams vote and it passes and that’s it… not?
and i thought boner looked a little more washed out…
February 14th, 2008 at 2:20 pmI don’t think they can vote without a quorum? But not sure how many that is.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:20 pm.
What does granting immunity have to do with contemt charges of Bolton and Meyers?
Boehner is a a boner.
.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:20 pmdems … so sorry
February 14th, 2008 at 2:20 pmSo Boehner and his merry band staged a partisan stunt to protest a partisan stunt? And the logic here is…?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:21 pmJust when I think the Republicans in Congress can’t get any more ridiculous….VOILA!
Oh yeah, it’s not partisan or crazy to pass a stupid resolution about MoveOn.org, or to congratulate and Honor Rush Limbaugh, but it is so partisan to vote on upholding legitimately issued congressional subpoenas. I think this rabbit hole goes a bit deeper my friends.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:21 pm.
The Rpublicans think contempt of Congress is acceptable.
.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:21 pm.
To Boehener,
SINCE WHEN IS WARRANTLESS CONSTITUTIONALLY LEGAL?
.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:22 pmfunny though… his words say one thing, the actions say another…
“… house republicans stand ready to stay here as long as it takes…”
February 14th, 2008 at 2:24 pmjust before walking out…
I’m sorry — I must have missed something. What does the matter of the U.S. Attorney firings and the subpoenas of Bolton and Miers have to do with the expiration of FISA?
Or did Boehner forget what he was protesting on his way outside?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:24 pm#17 Quorum in both chambers is a simple majority.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:25 pmThe Republicans think contempt of Congress is acceptable.
Comment by Max-1
Republicans in Congress think contempt of Congress is actually something to be defended at all costs! Apparently, Congressional Republicans consider themselves to be contemptible.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:25 pmAt least they had the balls to walk out.
the democrats would never show that much political will.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:26 pmNobody talks about the “F” word.
America turned into a FASCIST state in 2000. We were hijacked by the neoCONs.
Set up an internal surveillance system
In Mussolini’s Italy, in Nazi Germany, in communist East Germany, in communist China - in every closed society - secret police spy on ordinary people and encourage neighbours to spy on neighbours. The Stasi needed to keep only a minority of East Germans under surveillance to convince a majority that they themselves were being watched.
In 2005 and 2006, when James Risen and Eric Lichtblau wrote in the New York Times about a secret state programme to wiretap citizens’ phones, read their emails and follow international financial transactions, it became clear to ordinary Americans that they, too, could be under state scrutiny.
In closed societies, this surveillance is cast as being about “national security”; the true function is to keep citizens docile and inhibit their activism and dissent.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:26 pmTalk about Obstructionist! You know I called my Senator from PA. (casey) yesterday and gave his Aide an earful because he eventually caved and voted for Cheney’s bill for Immunity and his aid said, “well he knows it’s unconstitutional but after trying to strip it from the bill and votting for all of the ammendments he was sure that there is a good chance that when the bill goes to conference with the house immunity will be stripped.”
I said, “A GOOD CHANCE?” he voted for an unconstitutional bill on the “CHANCE” that the house “MIGHT” strike it down? This is precisely why the Dems are losing. They are afraid to look weak on terra and so they just look weak on everything by caving in and letting the Repugnicunts have whatever they want.
As Much as I hate the SOB from Ohio BONER (R) Why can’t the DEMs show some freaking spine!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:27 pmThis is about saving the Telcos money.
Our National Security is not at risk.
This is covered in detail at Daily Kos. Join the discussion and call your rep.
I called my rep yesterday and will continue to do so.
Again, this is about saving the Telcos money. Period. It must be stopped.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:27 pmsure wish the dems had such nerve…
February 14th, 2008 at 2:27 pmAt least they had the balls to walk out.
the democrats would never show that much political will.
Comment by Constitutionalist — February 14, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
Typical NEOcon troll.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:28 pmballs and politics before liberty and nation.
it’s not the telcos money - they have money to piss…
it’s hiding bushco crimes.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:29 pm.
And call your congress-person and tell them “Hell No†on telco immunity.
Comment by Wayne — February 14, 2008 @ 2:17 pm
I have many times unfortunately my congress person is Murphy(R) Pa
And he’s a Bushlicker from the word go.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:29 pmFISA is not at risk of expiring. Ongoing surveillance will not be interrupted.
The Senate wants a bill to save the Telcos money and save Republicans from prosecution.
They are trying to scare Americans into supporting them.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:29 pmthen i’m a trool too, ru
February 14th, 2008 at 2:30 pmFANTASTIC! MORE PROOF REPUBLICANS ARE ENEMIES TO OUR DEMOCRACY! THEY HAVE ALL BUT DECLARED WAR ON THEMSELVES!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:30 pmWhat a bunch of gigantic pussies these Republicans are. They have abandoned their oaths of office. This is treason. I say death by hanging for any member who walked away from their duties.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:30 pmI just sent this to my congressman:
Hello Congressman Manzullo,
I would like to hear from you on if you participated in the walkout today staged by Rep. Boehner in regards to the contempt of Congress charges against former Bush administration officials. Please respond and inform me what position you took and where you stand on this. Mr. Boehner called the contempt charges a “partisan stunt” and was so outraged at this stunt that he performed a partisan stunt of his own and staged the walk out.
I do look forward to an honest response. I would also like some clarification on if one is so bad why would a second partisan stunt help the american people?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:30 pmAs corrupt and down right bizzare as they are, you have to be impressed that the minority party continually outmanuevers the majority in Congress and drives the agenda. Something to be learned there by the spineless Dem Leadership who will someday again be the minority. I hope someone is taking notes.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:30 pmUPDATE II: The House contempt vote against Miers and Bolten passed, 223-32.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:31 pmkety you are correct.
Yesterday’s latest excuse was Telcos obligations to shareholders at risk. This was Warners excuse.
The excuses change. The intent is the same. To scare Americans into throwing away their constitution.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:31 pmAre you a troll, a tool, or a hybrid?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:32 pmYes, Katy, here’s a link too. http://www.reuters.com/ article/ politicsNews/ idUSN1446592220080214
See, THAT is how it’s done.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:32 pmDecimation of the Republican ranks in the House of Representatives is in order.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:33 pmThere’s only one way left to fix this country… and it’s NOT by voting.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:34 pmI think it’s time for the Telcos to come forward and be good patriots. Admit their crimes, nail bush and move on.
I would forgive Telcos for cooperating in charges against Bush.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:34 pmNow we need a warrant for Mukasey’s arrest.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:35 pmUPDATE II: The House contempt vote against Miers and Bolten has passed, 223-32.
BWAHAHAHAHAHAH! Poor pissy Boner. He’ll be right back after a change of Depends..
February 14th, 2008 at 2:35 pmat this point, i feel the dems deserve to lose. if they havent figured out that they are being played, & to deal with that in a proactive manner, then, i am sorry, they are losers.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:36 pmBefore we sleep ~ Didn’t do them a whole lot of good this time, did it.?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:36 pmThe Ten Steps Of Fascism
1. Create a terrifying internal and external enemy.
2. Create your very own gulag archipelago.
3. Develop your own “Brown Shirted” Thugs.
4. Set up a surveillance system.
5. Attack citizens’ groups
6. Engage in arbitrary detention and release
7. Target opposition leaders…
8. Control the Media
9. Dissent equals treason
10. Suspend the rule of law
February 14th, 2008 at 2:36 pmThe Bush WAR CRIMINAL scumbag TREASON continues…
“You’re either WITH McCain and Bush OR
February 14th, 2008 at 2:37 pmYou’re with America and the TRUTH”
I don’t think they can vote without a quorum? But not sure how many that is.
Comment by Evergreen2U — February 14, 2008 @ 2:20 pm
According to the Constitution, a quorum in the House of Representatives (Senate, too) is a simple majority. Nowadays, that would be 218 representatives.
From Article One, Section 5 of the Constitution: “Each House shall be the judge of the elections, returns and qualifications of its own members, and a majority of each shall constitute a quorum to do business;”
The quorum rule isn’t always enforced, since business is often conducted without a majority present. However, if a vote were to be taken after a sizeable number had walked out in protest, you can bet the protesters would be screaming “quorum rule!” So as long as there were still 218 representatives on the floor, a vote could be taken, and the protesters couldn’t do a thing about it.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:37 pmUPDATE II: The House contempt vote against Miers and Bolten passed, 223-32.
Comment by katy —
Looks like not all of the Republicans walked out. Some actually stayed in order to go on record as having contempt for themselves.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:37 pmi’ll take tool…
February 14th, 2008 at 2:37 pma left wing progressive liberal democratic tool…
being used to promote and defend the CONSTITUTION
and the RULE OF LAW
and the AMERICAN DREAM
of LIFE LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS.
Just curious — how many Dems you think got up and walked out of the partisan witch-hunt proceedings to impeach Bill Clinton for lying about a consensual sex affair? None to my knowledge.
Boner and the GOP asshats can go crying out the door as much as they want — if the Dems don’t stick to their guns and kick these bastoids to the curb, the same way Boner and his boys have done it to the Dems these past dozen or so years, then the Dems don’t deserve to be in power either.
Just saying . . .
February 14th, 2008 at 2:38 pmYes, Katy, here’s a link too. http://www.reuters.com/ article/ politicsNews/ idUSN1446592220080214
See, THAT is how it’s done.
Comment by Jeremy in Denver — February 14, 2008 @ 2:32 pm
Now if they can just hold together to strip Immunity for the Telecoms… It will be the only Valentine that I will ever need!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:38 pmat this point, i feel the dems deserve to lose. if they havent figured out that they are being played, & to deal with that in a proactive manner, then, i am sorry, they are losers.
Comment by grover nerdkissed — February 14, 2008 @ 2:36 pm
———–
[Oda Nobunaga]
Is that so?
Perhaps you haven’t noticed that they passed the contempt motion, even with this silly procedural motion the Republican Party tried to pull. I think they’re alot less of a ‘loser’ than you yourself are.
Hmph. Get out of my sight.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:40 pm[/Oda Nobunaga]
This has nothing to do with telecom money and everything to do with all the crimes; the dates, the specifics, coming out in a trial. Bush and his merry band of THUGS will do EVERYTHING to protect their lies and chicanery (LOVE that word! Appalling that I have to use it towards MY FRIGGIN’ GOVERNMENT!!)
And when I say ANYTHING I mean it. That YOU’RE ALL GONNA DIE IF THIS ISN’T PASSED NOW speech this morning (or whenever it was…still on GMT+1 time here) isn’t bravado, it’s an out and out threat.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:41 pmSomeone should really poop on Representative Boehner.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:42 pmScrew you guys, I’m taking my ball and going home.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:42 pmThe only purpose for the GOP Congress/Senate and the Executive branch of the government from now until Jan 20, 2009, is to keep Bush and Cheney out of JAIL. Nothing else matters.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:43 pmBush and company seem to believe that playing the fear card makes their position justifiable:
Roosevelt inauguration speech: the only thing we have to fear is fear itself
Roosevelt State of Union speech:Roosevelt enumerated four points as fundamental freedoms humans “everywhere in the world” ought to enjoy:
February 14th, 2008 at 2:44 pmFreedom of speech and expression
Freedom of every person to worship in his own way
Freedom from want
Freedom from fear
At least they had the balls to walk out.
the democrats would never show that much political will.
Comment by Constitutionalist — February 14, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
Yeah?
Wait till a DEMOCRATIC president presides, and ARRESTS the TRAITORS Bush and Cheney for GENOCIDE and TREASON against the USA.
YOU will be WHIIIIINING like Boner!!!
“You’re either WITH McCain and Bush OR
February 14th, 2008 at 2:45 pmYou’re with the USA and the TRUTH!”
Quick, bolt the doors!!! A quorum in the House is 218. Keep the damn Repubs out and get the country back to where it belongs before you let them back in!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:45 pmboehner accuses the dems of staging a ’stunt’, but the GOP walking out of the house? that’s not ‘political grandstanding’. oh no. never. that’s just ‘protecting the american people’.
these guys are so stupid, i can’t even begin to tell you.
listen GOP: it’s not a dichotomy between ‘holding WH officials in contempt’ and ‘protecting america’. you can, in fact, hold the WH accountable AND protect america just fine.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:45 pmLOL@burningbush
That sounds like a GREAT idea.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:46 pmCry baby Boehner is saying that want to “protect America”, but they have no problem passing bills stating “Christmas is a super duper holiday”, and that “Rush is a super duper reich-winger”. What a dolt.
Typical reich-wingers, if they can’t have their way, they have to run away like a children.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:46 pmwell, good for the democratic house for causing these guys to look so ridiculous!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:47 pmthen i’m a trool too, ru
Comment by katy — February 14, 2008 @ 2:30 pm
Are you a troll, a tool, or a hybrid?
Comment by Marcus Aurelius — February 14, 2008 @ 2:32 pm
oh… ha ha… heh… i get it now… i see i misspelled above…
that’s a given, as i usually refer to the trolls as troolls,
which IS a hybrid of mine for troll+tool… heh…
i was responding to a comment by RU @ 2:28 pm
but i’ll still stand by my rant at #57…
February 14th, 2008 at 2:48 pmConstitutionalist thinks it takes “balls” to walk out in protest. No, it takes a bunch of “nuts” who put party over country, in other words “Party Nuts”.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:49 pmI wish they would have kept walking to the Potomac. Kerplunk!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:52 pmNot to dis FDR or anything but the only thing we have to fear is OUR GOVERNMENT.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:53 pm.
So …
If, say, during the 1990s, someone from Clinton’s administration ignored a Congressional subpoena, what are the odds the GOP would have had an absolute conniption fit?
What are the odds Newt and Co. would have been absolutely apopleptic about it and spent weeks on every single channel going on and on about the Clinton’s disregard for the rule of law?
What are the odds that the media would have been more happy to start every newscast about how the Clintons are ignoring Congress’ Constitutional duties?
I put them all at even money.
.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:55 pmThe only problem is, the criminal contempt charge is now referred to the DC US Attorney. That would be Jeffrey Taylor, who was appointed by Alberto Gonzales specifically to block any contempt of Congress charges related to the firings of the US Attorneys.
Instead, Congress should vote a Civil Contempt of Congress. With a civil contempt charge, Nancy Pelosi can instruct the Sergeant in Arms of Congress to arrest Miers and Bolton, and drag them to the House floor in shackles.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:55 pmI fail to see how walking out and refusing to take part in discussions protects the people or keeps the act from expiring.
Richard Clarke ha stated the act will not expire because it runs for a full year.
The revelations that the NSA actually began negotiation with AT&T as early as February, 2001 and that at least one of these “critical” wiretaps lapsed because the government didn’t pay its bill should be proof enough to even the most tremulous of Democrats that Bush and the Republicans have been playing them for years. -DailyKos
February 14th, 2008 at 2:57 pmBoehner was for not paying the bills before he was [not] for protecting the people.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:59 pmWALK OUT AND STAY THE HELL OUT!!! DON’T COME BACK!!!
These people are all for the “rule of law”, so long as it doesn’t apply to them.
They are all for bipartisanism, so long as it is the Democrats who are capitulating to them and not the other way around.
They are all for investigation after investigation, no matter how much time and money are wasted - so long as the target of the investigation is not a Republican.
If the entire GOP membership of the House left and didn’t come back, just how would that be “bad” for the country?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:00 pmand, as far as duby not going to africa,
GOOD, save us all a bunch of money.
NO IMMUNITY.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:02 pmAlright ! Now if they keep the momentum going and start enforcing the law instead of letting the Repubs whine their way out. Boehner is such a crybaby. How is it noone else can ignore a subpoena ?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:02 pmNow we must remember that it was VERY important for our republican representatives to condemn MoveOn for saying bad things about Dear Mr Patreaus. The republicans can’t be supportive of free speech, free speech applies too equally to the masses…
And as they can’t uphold our rights, then they musn’t hold anyone in this administration actuallyaccountable for thumbing up their noses at any other part of our constitution.
AND, they absolutely can’t have the Telco’s being held accountable for trashing our civil liberties.
After all, they must be consistent. You only have rights if you are rich and powerful, and Christian and white.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:02 pmThe crybaby leads a revolt!
They walked just like they avoided the draft.
Fearmongers and chickenhawks forever. What a combo!
Once a child always a child.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:03 pmMan, I thought these guys hated political “stunts”
February 14th, 2008 at 3:04 pmInstead, Congress should vote a Civil Contempt of Congress. With a civil contempt charge, Nancy Pelosi can instruct the Sergeant in Arms of Congress to arrest Miers and Bolton, and drag them to the House floor in shackles.
I still think we should hit Miers where it would hurt most; her law license. I tried to call the TX bar association to find out about MY filing a complaint about her continuing to have her law license while willfully ignoring a congressional subpoena. (You have to call the state, btw, not the bar association.) Why should she be allowed to have a license when she is breaking the law!
February 14th, 2008 at 3:04 pmFebruary 14th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Good. Stupid Republicans weren’t fit to be there in the first place. Don’t come back.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:05 pmPelosi doesn’t even mention immunity on her page about FISA, the sellout b*tch.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:06 pmThose waahhhhpublicans who walked out should be docked a days pay and possibly fired like any regular person would if they walked out of their job in “protest”.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:06 pm#77 Shoeless - Can you send some of that commonsense and intelligence to our Congress ? They are tentatively on the right track hopefully stand strong.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:07 pmGood thing that Schiavo stunt wasn’t during the war. Good thing that flag burning stunt wasn’t during the war. Good thing that defense of marriage stunt wasn’t during the war.
Or we’d all be dead.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:08 pmI am thinking how many members have stock in telecoms and when the lawsuits roll in without immunity it will be far reaching.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:08 pmPelosi doesn’t even mention immunity on her page about FISA, the sellout b*tch.
Comment by Wayne
That could be because there was no immunity provision in the House bill. Only the Senate bill had the immunity provision.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:09 pmwaahhhhpublicans
Comment by Bozo The Neoclown — February 14, 2008 @ 3:06 pm
I like this term and plan to add it to my vernacular.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:09 pm#77 Shoeless - Can you send some of that commonsense and intelligence to our Congress ? They are tentatively on the right track hopefully stand strong.
Comment by texaslady
I will. We should all contact our Representitives and tell them to vote Civil Contempt of Congress charges against Miers and Bolton.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:10 pmI bet mens rooms around DC suddenly filled with toe-tappers.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:10 pmSenator Warner is concerned about Telco stockholders.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:11 pmHow come I’m thinking of Animal House when the folkes walked out of academic senate cuz they all knew that double secret probation was gonna happen. the Animal House folkes were pretty funny. I find these jerks pathetic.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:11 pmwaahhhhpublicans
Comment by Bozo The Neoclown — February 14, 2008 @ 3:06 pm
I like this term and plan to add it to my vernacular.
Comment by toasterhead
:::::::::::taking a curtain call::::::::::::::::
February 14th, 2008 at 3:12 pmI just call them like i see them, all they do is cry like a bunch of two year olds with a crappy nappy.
I think it’s a measure of how fu(ked the Republicans in Congress are that they saw this stunt as their only viable course of action.
If they voted FOR the contempt citations, they would be betraying their Dear Leader. Can’t have that.
If they voted AGAINST the contempt citations, they would be betraying the Rule of Law. (I know, why bother worrying about it at this stage, but there may be SOME who still believe their crap).
Thus walking out was the only thing they could do; distract the media and try to blame the Democrats.
Enjoy that nice spot next to the Hard Place, boys. At least the Rock gives you some shade.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:13 pmHow come I’m thinking of Animal House when the folkes walked out of academic senate cuz they all knew that double secret probation was gonna happen. the Animal House folkes were pretty funny. I find these jerks pathetic.
Comment by natisman — February 14, 2008 @ 3:11 pm
Good one. Did they hum the Battle Hymn of the Republic as they marched out?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:14 pmThat could be because there was no immunity provision in the House bill. Only the Senate bill had the immunity provision.
Comment by shoeless — February 14, 2008 @ 3:09 pm
And the telco immunity IS the difference that has to be worked out for it to finally pass. I would rather the House refuse immunity for law breakers.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:14 pm#98 - Would be interesting to see how much campaign money has come in from the telecoms. But we know money never influences a vote now don’t we?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:15 pmI would rather the House refuse immunity for law breakers.
And who but law breakers needs immunity?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:16 pmBet the Oval Office is littered with toys thrown around today. How dare the Congress do their job !!!
February 14th, 2008 at 3:17 pmAt least they had the balls to walk out.
the democrats would never show that much political will.
Comment by Constitutionalist
So to this trolling troll, political will is defined as doing what the Chimpster wants - even if the country and our founding fathers beautifully worded documents get stomped on in the process.
Party and deference to Bush is paramount to these traitors. Hitler should have been so lucky to have Boner and his group salivating at the thought of raising dear leader to an imperial king. Even the Kremlin is jealous of Bush and his criminal enterprise. No dictator in the history of the planet has been so lucky as our dismal ‘idiot in chief’.
Mark my words: Future dictator “wanna be’s” will read the Bush/Rove playbook and follow it to the letter. What a legacy to leave behind.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:18 pmDon’t worry everyone. When Barack Hussein Obama is President, he’s going to give a great speech, and magically the Repubs aren’t going to act like giant a-holes anymore.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:19 pm1) And Stay Out!!!!!!!!!!
February 14th, 2008 at 3:20 pm2) See if you can get your senate buddies to join you.
Civil Contempt of Congress
In 1795, Congress used the power of contempt for the first time when it arrested, tried, and punished a man accused of bribing members of the House of Representatives. Then Congress acted on its own authority—subsequently called the Self-Help power, which grants Congress the right to compel testimony and punish disobedience without the involvement of a court or other government body if the individual’s actions obstruct the legislative process. By 1821, the Supreme Court recognized Congress’s power to arrest and punish individuals for contempt.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:21 pmI commend the repuglycans for taking the principled stance and walking out, rather than sitting down and taking the shellacking they so richly deserve. I’d like them to spend the next eleven months continually marching in and out of the House floor, and not bothering to vote anymore, on anything.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:24 pmBy 1821, the Supreme Court recognized Congress’s power to arrest and punish individuals for contempt.
Comment by shoeless
Good one, shoeless…I wonder if anyone in Congress can read? Maybe they can read, they just don’t care.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:24 pmKeep walking, you dirty thugs - and don’t come back.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:26 pmCivil Contempt of Congress
In 1795, Congress used the power of contempt for the first time when it arrested, tried, and punished a man accused of bribing members of the House of Representatives. Then Congress acted on its own authority—subsequently called the Self-Help power, which grants Congress the right to compel testimony and punish disobedience without the involvement of a court or other government body if the individual’s actions obstruct the legislative process. By 1821, the Supreme Court recognized Congress’s power to arrest and punish individuals for contempt.
PLEASE SEND THIS TO YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS. It’s too apparent that they are confused about their own abilities.
Click on your state for phone/fax/email info: http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/
February 14th, 2008 at 3:27 pmhttp://ccoaler.blogspot.com/ 2008/ 02/ total-republican-obstruction-imminent.html
Furthermore the Republican party showerd disrespect for death today. Furthermore they walked out on a FISA bill
February 14th, 2008 at 3:28 pmSo unbelievable that they are condoning the ignoring of subpoenas.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:31 pmEverything Boehner does is laughable but this is insane.
I think the best ‘Walkout’ from the Congress that will help Americans if these two party represntatives just walk out, go home and don’t come back…this way the American people will find them a better Congress than what they have now.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:32 pmI am so sick of hearing about security. Security, protecting the American people, exploiting fear, or whatever you want to call it, is NOT congress’ number one objective…representing their constituents should be top on the list, and one would think upholding the constitution and rule of law would be close behind.
Freedom isn’t cheap and I would gladly trade some of their so called “security” for a restoration of civil liberties and the rule of law in this country.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:33 pmI’m voting obama and i’ve always been on the left.
It’s called making a point you liberal troll.
Why didn’t the dems walk out on fisa? oh wait they voted for it.
owned.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:34 pmWhen DEMOCRACY DEFEATS THEM, the GOP CUTS AND RUNS like the CLASSIC WHINY LITTLE WIMPS THEY ALWAYS ARE! COWARDS!
If they can’t stand DEMOCRACY or STAY AND FIGHT THE DEMOCRATS, how can we expect them to STAND UP TO THE TERRORISTS! P**SIES!
February 14th, 2008 at 3:35 pmI’m voting obama and i’ve always been on the left.
It’s called making a point you liberal troll.
Why didn’t the dems walk out on fisa? oh wait they voted for it.
owned.
Comment by Constitutionalist — February 14, 2008 @ 3:34 pm
No, you’re a STUPID P**SY, STFU you TRAITOR!
February 14th, 2008 at 3:35 pmI just sent this message to my Representative:
Mr. Mica: You are a disgrace to your office to have participated in such a PARTISAN political stunt by walking out of the House chamber this afternoon. The American people want accountability from the Executive Branch and you don’t seem to want that by you actions. I wonder, did the President’s illegal spying on Americans prior to and after 9-11 find some dirt on you? Is that why you follow the President’s agenda without question? Do you expect to be re-elected?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:37 pmSo, what do you think the Republiscums would say if the Democrats walked out when they wanted their vote on the FISA bill?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:37 pmWaitaminute…. if they have quorum without republicans….and the republicans walked out….
START PASSING LEGISLATION….. ALL OF IT…. GO CRAZY. You still only need one more AYE than NAY!!!!
February 14th, 2008 at 3:37 pmCowardly little Republicans. The fact that ANYONE can vote for these sissies is UTTERLY beyond me. I don’t care for who else one might vote, but voting for these little coward whiners, I mean, how can ANYONE do that?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:38 pmmay they all let the door hit them in the *ss on the way out.
quitters and surrender-monkeys.
that’s why 29 of them are quitting Congress altogether
when the going gets tough, Righty takes a powder - as usual.
tune up the excuse-making choir and sharpen up your blame-pointing fingers righties.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:39 pmThe worst part is that Harry “Big Pussy” Reid would never even have the stones to try something like this. He would just bend over and ask for more.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:40 pmPersonally, I hope that the Republicans will walk out of many votes in the future- eventually I hope they leave DC altogether…
February 14th, 2008 at 3:40 pmThe worst part is that Harry “Big Pussy†Reid would never even have the stones to try something like this. He would just bend over and ask for more.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:41 pmThank you, sir! May I have another! (Tis the night for Animal House.)
So unbelievable that they are condoning the ignoring of subpoenas.
Everything Boehner does is laughable but this is insane.
Comment by texaslady — February 14, 2008 @ 3:31 pm
Hey, Just for fun I called and asked the person that answered What the rationale was that made it ok for Meirs and Bolton to ignore the supoeanas that the Minority leader didn’t see the need to hold them in contempt… He said because they were “High Level Govmnt. Employees…” I said so that makes it ok for them to break the law but not anyone else? Hesaid, “thankyou sir and the line went dead… ;)
I think everyone ought to call …here’s the number.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:45 pmOffice of the House Republican Leader
H-204 The Capitol
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-4000
Fax: (202) 225-5117
So unbelievable that they are condoning the ignoring of subpoenas.
Everything Boehner does is laughable but this is insane.
Comment by texaslady
If this was back in the Clinton Administration and he had told the people working for him to ignore subpoenas (he didn’t do that), the Republicans would have been howling from the rooftops.
They really don’t see what hypocrites they are, do they?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:47 pmI’m voting obama and i’ve always been on the left.
It’s called making a point you liberal troll.
Why didn’t the dems walk out on fisa? oh wait they voted for it.
owned.
Comment by Constitutionalist — February 14, 2008 @ 3:34 pm
If (and that’s a big ass IF) you are such a CONSTITUTIONALIST, then why would you be praising the rethugs for walking out of a vote on an important separation of powers issue? They are putting party before the Constitution, and you somehow conflate that as having balls, and wishing the Dems would do the same?
Sorry, ain’t buyin it.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:50 pmAt least they had the balls to walk out.
the democrats would never show that much political will.
Comment by Constitutionalist
The a$$hat troll Constitutionalist thinks that walking out on a vote shows political will. I’m sorry but I don’t want the Democrats to start acting like petulant children the way the Republicans are. I would like to see them stand up to the Republicans more often, but I don’t want to see them acting like the Republicans.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:51 pmThose whiny hypocrites. If the cut-and-run republicans can’t stand up to the democrats how are they going to stand up to the terrorists?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:53 pmThe worst part is that Harry “Big Pussy†Reid would never even have the stones to try something like this. He would just bend over and ask for more.
Comment by lefty
So, are you saying that you want Reid to start acting like petulant children like the Republicans are? I would not like to see Reid do anything like this. I would like to see Reid stop allowing bills like the FISA bill with immunity even come to the floor. That is how the Republicans did it and it was procedurally correct.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:55 pmComment by Saint Augustine — February 14, 2008 @ 3:37 pm
thanks for the tip, I e-mailed my cowardly Republican Representative as well:
Dear Mr. Kirk,
February 14th, 2008 at 3:57 pmI am disgusted you and your Republican brothers have the gaul to walk out on your Congressional duties simply because you refuse to hold this administration accountable for their actions.
What am supposed to tell my young daughter about your actions? What am I supposed to tell her about your hypocritical demands for “accountability” while not holding this Administration accountable for their utter disrespect for the law.
I should remind you Mr. Kirk, you are nothing more than a citizen of this counry and you are not above the law which you swore to uphold.
I suspect that they walked out because they knew that they didn’t have the votes to block the Democrats, as proven by the final vote.
So, now that they have found Bolton and Meiers in contempt, are they going to send out the Sargent at Arms to arrest them. Please…please..please.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:58 pmPutting on flame retardant gear….
Comment by Constitutionalist — February 14, 2008 @ 3:34 pm
I understand exactly what he is saying and unfortunately I agree (with the concept). The Rethugs did this grandstanding bull$hit thing but they had the balls to do it (as stupid and childish as it was) where our elected officials roll over and beg someone to scratch their sorry a$$ stomachs.
Dems need spines is what he’s saying and I agree. Give Pelosi her f’ing table already. I sent Reid a scathing email the other day.
If they can’t do anything step down and let the likes of Webb and Feingold do the people’s work. F()CK the POS people who do anything but our work. And that includes our structurally challenged dems.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:59 pm#130 - Good one ! I will call too. What an answer he gave you, do you think they really believe that crap ?
#131 bilbo - you are exactly right, but how could boehner get anyone to go along with such a stupid stunt ? Wonder if any that walked are up for reelection? Looks like the Repubs are really, really desperate.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:01 pm“So, now that they have found Bolton and Meiers in contempt, are they going to send out the Sargent at Arms to arrest them. Please…please..please.”
Comment by bilbobaggins — February 14, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
If there is any justice left in this world they will! Let’s hope…
February 14th, 2008 at 4:02 pmIf there is any justice left in this world they will! Let’s hope…
Forgive me if I don’t hold my breath.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:03 pmMsJoanne - If the American public would let the Dems know we are with them and want them to act like law abiding grownups maybe just maybe they will start doing their jobs.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:04 pmBonehead is a freakin’ comedian. We won’t stand for this grandstanding…..but we’ll engage in some of our own!
February 14th, 2008 at 4:06 pm“If they can’t do anything step down and let the likes of Webb and Feingold do the people’s work. F()CK the POS people who do anything but our work. And that includes our structurally challenged dems.”
Comment by Ms_Joanne — February 14, 2008 @ 3:59 pm
I’ve got to agree with you Ms_Joanne, It is well past time for the Dems to strap a set on and do the right thing even if it means they don’t have the votes. Make the Repugs actually filibuster, I mean the old fashioned way, stay up all night talking. I promise you that after a few all nighters, they will be much more willing to work together.
However, Webbs made my Sh1t-List do to his vote for Immunity. Right now I’m a one issue guy. NO IMMUNITY! once we get that out of the way Let’s find Nancy a Table and start the proceedings… ;)
February 14th, 2008 at 4:09 pmMsJoanne - If the American public would let the Dems know we are with them and want them to act like law abiding grownups maybe just maybe they will start doing their jobs.
I don’t honestly know what more we could do. Polls show 70+% of people are against this president. We (*I*) call continuously. I write. How many of us do?? I am reaching F()CK IT, NO MATTER WHAT THEY ARE NOT GOING TO DO ANYTHING mode. And it depresses the hell out of me.
I don’t know what more we can do. But I am most certainly open to suggestions!
February 14th, 2008 at 4:10 pmHowever, Webbs made my Sh1t-List do to his vote for Immunity.
I STILL do not get what Webb did nor did his explanation resonate. That one needs further clarification. If he wanted it to go to the senate, fine, but why vote as he did?
Anyone??
February 14th, 2008 at 4:12 pm#144 TRRRW - Each party has benefitted Dems 44% Repubs 56% in campaign funds since 1990 from all tel utitilities Overall 2006 Repubs 63% going to be hard to not protect their sugardaddies.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:13 pmIf the American public would let the Dems know we are with them and want them to act like law abiding grownups maybe just maybe they will start doing their jobs.
Comment by texaslady — February 14, 2008 @ 4:04 pm
On the day the Senate caved on immunity, I called my Senator to thank him for voting for the Dodd ammendment only to find out that latter he also voted for the Cheney bill, the final one that grants immunity…
Needless to say I was slightly taken aback… How can we let them know that we are with them when they keep doing the wrong goddamned thing?
February 14th, 2008 at 4:15 pmMsJoanne - right there with you . Been arguing against bush and his cronies since he was Governor, sent us into deficit, pollution was higher than LA. Could not believe when he was “given” the Presidency not once but Twice ! Could not believe when no one listened to not go into Iraq. Called, e-mailed, did everything we could and it seemed we were talking in a well.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:22 pmWell, today was the first breath of fresh air I have seen in more than 8 years, we in Texas, had this butt head longer. So, lets be happy if only for today.
“…going to be hard to not protect their sugardaddies.’
Comment by texaslady — February 14, 2008 @ 4:13 pm
That’s what I mean, DO THE RIGHT THING not the politically expediant thing.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:22 pmGood old libs!! You all sure know how to protect us don’t you! God forbid if the little Teddy Bear Barrack gets in.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:23 pmHey, JK you dip$hit…try this on for size (and thanks to Steve Benen at http://www.thecarpetbaggerreport.com for this):
Second, if the powers extended through the PPA were genuinely a matter of “life and death,†which “grown-ups†should appreciate, Republicans could get exactly the surveillance powers they want today if they dropped telecom immunity.
Look, if it’s that important, there’s a simple answer: pass the bill without telecom immunity. Then come back and introduce immunity in a separate bill. If you’ve got the votes for it, fine. If not, too bad. I’m against immunity myself — though hardly hellbent on the subject — but whichever way the vote went, in the meantime we’d have the FISA extension and surveillance could continue normally.
But that’s not on the table. The supposed grownups in the GOP are, apparently, perfectly happy to play around with “life and death†if it’s in the service of a bit of demagogic brinksmanship over telecom immunity.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:26 pmJK, you really have to pull your head out of your a$$. Accountability is key and the republicans try to stop that at every corner. What are you so afraid of?
February 14th, 2008 at 4:27 pmWhat are you so afraid of?
How much time do you have? ;-)
February 14th, 2008 at 4:28 pm#148 - It has to be once in the Washington political swamp you think the whole world runs this way. The voter is only important every time you are up for election…otherwise who do you see all day ? The lobbyist, bush’s policy, cheney’s agenda. And they can punish you harder than the voter can.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:28 pmGood old libs!! You all sure know how to protect us don’t you! God forbid if the little Teddy Bear Barrack gets in.
Comment by John Kerry — February 14, 2008 @ 4:23 pm
Look, another WHIIIINER like TREASON-supporter John BONER!!
They ARE protecting the country, by getting your TRAITORS to follow the LAW. Sorry YOU don’t believe in the LAW of the USA, TRAITOR!!
As for Teddy Bear Barrack,
God HELP the USA if PANDER BEAR McTraitor gets in!! LOL!!
“You’re either with McCain and Bush OR
February 14th, 2008 at 4:30 pmYou’re with the USA and the TRUTH”
Ms_Joanne, no need for flame resistant from me. I agree that it would be nice for the dems to show some spine, but walking out of a vote regarding separation of powers is not something admirable…
February 14th, 2008 at 4:30 pmJK - Nothing, nothing could be worse than the last 8 years with your corrupt bunch of sub humans.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:30 pmGood old libs!! You all sure know how to protect us don’t you! God forbid if the little Teddy Bear Barrack gets in.
Comment by John Kerry — February 14, 2008 @ 4:23 pm
I know how to protect me. You’re on your own.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:31 pmComment by John Kerry — February 14, 2008 @ 4:23 pm
passed!
February 14th, 2008 at 4:32 pmi can’t seem to find the exact quote, with link, for this bushism
that i hear dubby say all the time on randi’s show (from memory):
“whenever you hear the word wiretap… a wiretap requires a warrant… nothing has changed…”
anyone have that?
February 14th, 2008 at 4:32 pm…but walking out of a vote regarding separation of powers is not something admirable…
And I agree with you in spades. As said, had any dem tried this at any point, the goopers AND the MSM would have crucified them and gladly done it live on national teevee.
I just wish we could:
-Learn the art of framing.
-Stick up for our country.
-Stand up for themselves ONCE!
-Shoot the ba$tards.
ok, scratch the last one…there are times and places for fantasies. (although, I do need a cigarette now!)
February 14th, 2008 at 4:33 pm!!!
randi is saying that the MEDIA is reporting that this walkout
happened during the FISA vote… not the CONTEMPT vote…
!
February 14th, 2008 at 4:36 pmComment by John Kerry — February 14, 2008 @ 4:23 pm
SFX: (fart noise)
February 14th, 2008 at 4:38 pmExcept this isn’t a game. This is our country. This is what many men and women, past and present have given their lives for. This isn’t about what one person, or many people that hold office deserve or don’t deserve, this is about what is right for this country and how can we get back on the right track.
I am as frustrated as anyone else at the poor showing of the Democrats in congress;however, right now, they are the best hope for putting the breaks on the destruction of this country. Hopefully, we can get some people that will change the system, but for now, giving the Republicans the “win”, does not help any of us.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:38 pmwhich is somewhat understandable considering boners’ speech preceeding
the walkout was about the VISA vote…
stoopid press not bothering to get the details…
February 14th, 2008 at 4:39 pm#161 - Katy That would be right there when bush curtly told a youngster “We don’t torture. ! ” That was last fall. Surprised the child wasn’t incarcerated right then. and waterboarded.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:39 pmWonder if any that walked are up for reelection? Looks like the Repubs are really, really desperate.
Comment by texaslady — February 14, 2008 @ 4:01 pm
This was the House where everyone is up for reelection every two years.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:39 pmJK - how about you going somewhere where ALL civil rights have been given up. Say, the military or Russia? Since you think protection equals no rights.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:41 pmWith the passage of the contempt resolutions again Josh Bolton and Harriet Miers, the matter now goes to the U. S. Attorney for the District of Columbia for prosecution. However, the Bush administration has announced that the U. S. Attorney will decline to take the matter before a grand jury.
Under today’s action, the House of Representatives then has the power to bring the matter directly before the federal courts.
If all else fails, Congress has the power under the “inherent authority” doctrine to hold Bolton, Miers, et al, in contempt of Congress.
This isn’t over by a long shot.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:45 pmWatching the parade of repubs today lying to the American people regarding the issues surrounding the Protect America Act ( hate these patriotic-bating monikers for legislation) was nauseating. They should be impeached for felonious lying to the people!
February 14th, 2008 at 4:50 pmThe fact is the telecom issue of immunity is the main difference between the Senate and House bills. Telecoms got to Bush and repubs with money dripping from their pockets. They don’t want to be sued for their illegal wiretapping.
And, we all know, it was not all the telecoms. Some refused the Administration’s pressure.
It is imperative for the survival of our Constitution that no immunity be granted.
Wow, The drama queens of the House GOP Republicans remind me of the cafeteria food boycotts in Junior High School … same level of maturity.
Boehner is a bonehead. A bad joke. I just hope Grand Ma Pelosi grows a spine and the DEMS hold the line. Tell Bush to cram his so-called ‘Protect America’ LIE.
Screw Domestic Spying. And screw the law breakers in the phone companies that helped Bush spy upon his political opponents even before 9/11!
February 14th, 2008 at 4:52 pmAt least they had the balls to walk out.
the democrats would never show that much political will.
Comment by Constitutionalist — February 14, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
Having “balls” without any brains is as useful as used toilet paper ……
You believe it shows “guts” to run away and not confront the issue ?
February 14th, 2008 at 4:53 pmok, scratch the last one…there are times and places for fantasies. (although, I do need a cigarette now!)
Comment by Ms_Joanne — February 14, 2008 @ 4:33 pm
[ ;>} — Smoke em if ya got em.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:54 pmHowever, Webbs made my Sh1t-List do to his vote for Immunity. Right now I’m a one issue guy. NO IMMUNITY! once we get that out of the way Let’s find Nancy a Table and start the proceedings… ;)
Comment by TheRadicalRightisRadicallyWrong
That is not the first time that Webb has disappointed me. I had such high hopes for him but he is starting to look a lot like the Blue Dogs in Congress.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:56 pmGood old libs!! You all sure know how to protect us don