As it is, this looks like a  story about the GOP’s censorship.

Historically, the rule that the Speaker controls the cameras was established by Tip O’Neill. Newt Gingrich (then in the minority) staged shows wherein Republicans would make speeches to an empty chamber (after legislative business was over) making harsh charges against Democrats & challenging them to respond. Since no one but the speech-maker was present, no one responded. The impression was given that Democrats were unable to counter the arguments.

Tip then directed C-Span to pan the empty chamber.

Pro forma sessions are a normal practice in both chambers and allow for certain legislative functions to be performed such as introductions of bills, speaker appointments and other mundane day to day business of each chamber.

There was nothing nefarious in the cameras being turned off or the quick gavel. As much as I think the House R’s should stop trying to be combative on everything, this was by no means some conspiracy. More importantly I think it was a little disingenuous to post this in the first place. The House was clearly no longer in session and there was no reason for the cameras to remain on.

Just because a congressperson continues to talk after the gavel doesn’t change the fact that the House was no longer in session. Trust me, capitol critters love to talk – especially when a camera is around.

If the House goes out of session long enough, The President can make recess appointments.

That always makes me think of the cabinet meeting between the swing set and the jungle jim.

Look at the fucking voting records.  Open your eyes.

I hope that was the point you were trying to make.

(And if this is a repost, sorry. My internet connection seemed to hang on my last attempt. Spotty service, and all.)

I always think it’s sad/amusing that Pelosi is so often trotted out as some kind of ‘liberal’ figurehead. “Your hero Pelosi did x” huh? whut?

The problem isn’t partisanship. The problem with modern American politics is that the political center is defined by the Democrats on one side–which are, at best, moderately liberal but more likely moderately conservative–and the Republican Tea Party set on the other–radically right-wing.

It’s the fetishization of centrism that’s screwing things up. Maybe when centrists stop crying about “partisanship” and realize that the middle between sane and crazy only serves to legitimize the crazy, we can move forward.

The fact that the GOP is so worried about paying for tax cuts undermines one of their sacred cows:  That any kind of tax cut pays for itself and spurs growth.

Of course, god forbid Obama or the Democrats actually point that out.

You might as well try to justify Obama’s recent civil rights violations by saying: “bbbbut mommmy George Bush…..”