Representative Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) has produced a blunt, accurate critique of the mistaken priorities of George W. Bush. Bush Cares More For Iraq Than America, Implies SenatorBy Cliff Montgomery – Nov. 29th, 2007Representative Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) produced a blunt, accurate critique of the mistaken priorities of George W. Bush in his November 13th extension of remarks on the House’s Labor-Health-Education appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2008.The legislation was to establish “appropriations for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes,” according to its official title.The bill originally passed the House on July 19th, 2007. It then moved on to the Senate, where it also easily passed on Oct. 23rd.But a Bush veto on this essential legislation forced House members to push for a veto override, which necessitated a two-thirds majority approval from U.S. representatives–a near-impossible task.The Labor-HHS-Education package failed the attempted veto override on Nov. 15th, with a final tally of 277 – 141. Fifteen House members did not vote on this important legislation–including Van Hollen himself. A shame, since the bill fell only 12 votes short of overriding Bush’s veto.One would think that Mr. Van Hollen would actually vote on a matter he himself declares to be so vital to the well-being of the country…All the same, Van Hollen’s portrayal of twisted presidential priorities sticks to this White House, and still deserves consideration.We quote Rep. Van Hollen’s extension of remarks below:“Madam Speaker, I am disappointed that the President chose today to veto important funding for our domestic priorities.”After seven years of unrestrained spending and a ballooning deficit, the President has, under the guise of fiscal responsibility, rejected a $6.2 billion funding increase for education, health care, and workforce development–even as he requests nearly $200 billion in un-budgeted, no-strings attached funding to continue the Iraq War for another year.”That is no way to balance America’s checkbook.”…We can take care of America at home–increase funding for our schools, offer more student assistance for college, invest in biomedical research…expand health care access, and help Americans compete in the global economy–and balance the budget by 2012.”These priorities are America’s priorities. It is time for Congress to come together, stand up for the American people and override this veto.”Like what you’re reading so far? Then why not order a full year (52 issues) of thee-newsletter for only $15? A major article covering an story not being told in the Corporate Press will be delivered to your email every Monday morning for a full year, for less than 30 cents an issue. Order Now!
How Necessary Laws Are Killed These Days
Lawmakers generally only fight to protect the things they care about – and all too often, that just doesn’t include the lives of most of their constituents.
