Republican press conference interrupted by vocal protest

“I hope that you have noticed in the last three days of debate by the Republicans up here that we have tried to be civil and appropriate. I would ask you to compare that with the supposed Democrat representative we’ve had here today and his rudeness and screaming and yelling”, said Rep. John Carter (R-Texas) in reference to an outburst from a bystander. As Carter and fellow Republicans discussed their party’s ongoing speeches on the House floor, a member of the crowd called the Republican representatives the “largest group of lying scoundrels” he had seen in one place. The man was promptly removed from the conference.

Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) said that Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) should call an emergency session of Congress in spite of the recess to address the rising costs of energy in America. Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas) echoed Hunter’s sentiments, encouraging the Congress to specifically consider the American Energy Act. Gohmert believes the bill would allow for the development much-needed energy resources. He also maintained that, despite recent criticism, the bill does not favor oil companies.

When asked whether Gohmert felt his comparison of America’s oil crisis to the fight against slavery in early American history was inappropriate, he responded that he felt the Republicans were doing what is right for the American people. He also said that the crisis cuts across all racial lines, and that gas prices affect all Americans.

Americans can’t afford democrats’ waiting-game

As national gas prices continue to increase, House Republicans held a news conference in response to the lack of a sufficient energy bill on the Hill. After having spent a week in their districts talking to constituents, speakers returned to Washington calling for legislation that would increase the domestic production of oil.

The importance of oil in the American economy was emphasized by Rep. John Carter (R-Texas). Carter said that an increase in gas prices will lead to an increase in production costs of all goods, an increase that would further stretch the wallets of the American consumer. Rep. Marilyn Musgrave (R-Colo.) added that gas prices are preventing middle class Americans from making an income and that continued high prices may cause many to experience severe financial struggles.

Rep. Bob Latta (R-Ohio) discussed the effect of high fuel costs in his district and stated that a comprehensive energy plan must be developed for the United States. Latta said that it is crucial that Congress form a strategy soon, saying that otherwise one will not be developed. Latta also said that waiting to react on the issue of high gas prices is “a luxury we cannot afford” and that drilling in the ANWR would benefit the United States.

Republican Whip Roy Blunt (Mo.) expressed excitement when asked about the presidential campaign, saying that differences between republican and democratic policies in Congress can finally be brought to the forefront of presidential debates. Blunt noted that in the past twelve years, 85 percent of republicans have voted to increase the domestic production of oil while 85 percent of democrats have opposed increased domestic production, waiting rather for alternative solutions. Blunt said that republicans have a larger understanding of rising oil prices and intelligent solutions to the issue.