House Democrats Vote for Vacation While Refusing to Pass Comprehensive Energy Bill - Day 1

On Friday, the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives voted to adjourn after Speaker Nancy Pelosi blocked Republican efforts to include a provision for expanded domestic drilling in energy legislation. All 199 Republicans voted against adjournment while enough Democrats voted for adjournment for the motion to pass by one vote.

In response to Democratic refusals to create a truly comprehensive energy solution that includes provisions for domestic oil production and expanded use of nuclear power, 22 Republican members remained on the House floor after the lights and cameras had been turned off to demand that Congress return to work. While many Americans can't afford to fill their gas tanks for summer trips, House Democrats voted to ignore efforts to ensure energy independence to go on vacation.

The 'phantom session' held by Republicans after adjournment allowed GOP members to talk with visitors and bring them to the floor while highlighting the Democrats' refusals to put every viable option in the energy bill. After broadcasting information on the phantom session using cell phones and Twitter, the GOP scored a PR coup. Some members are considering returning during the summer to keep the pressure on the Democrats and force Congress to reconvene so that the House can pass a real energy solution for America.

We should hold the House accountable for every day spent without passage of a comprehensive energy bill, and there should be a Republican member on the House floor every day talking with the American people about the need for Congress to get back to work.