Congress Plays Keepaway with the Public

Ernest Istook / September 15, 2009

The name of the game is “keepaway.” Keep Congress in Washington and away from the folks back home. It’s a key strategy for Congress’ liberal leadership, which has announced the new fall schedule for meetings and votes on Capitol Hill.

The original official plan was to adjourn by Oct. 30. Now the target is Thanksgiving but the expectation is Christmas, with maybe a one-week break somewhere along the way.

By keeping Congress in session and away from angry voters, leaders like Speaker Nancy Pelosi hope to plead, pressure and cajole enough votes to enact a massive health care bill. There’s less competition and interference from everyday people when elected officials are in Fortress Washington. (more…)