No Special Session

President Bush won't do it.

The White House has rejected calls from House Republicans that it convene a special session of Congress on energy, saying it wouldn’t make a difference.

“We don't have plans to call Congress into session -- it won't make a difference if Democratic leaders are unwilling to bring up a bill for an up-down vote,” said White House spokesman Tony Fratto. [SNIP]

They have a slight point.

House aides said that while the president can declare that Congress must sit for an emergency session, he cannot set the agenda – only the leadership of the majority party can do that.

But if they don't talk about domestic oil drilling during such a session, why can't the president get on TV and b*tch about it point this out? However, as Drew M. points out,

This White House has never really been any good at mobilizing public opinion, has it?

Only for a little while.

PREVIOUSLY:

Death Wish?
House GOP Members Earn Their Money For Once

Comments

[Roy Lofquist]

Dear Baldilocks,

It may be true that the White House communications have not lived up to some expectations but they have always been politically astute. A confrontation at this time is lousy timing. It would look like a clumsy attempt to distract from the Democratic convention.

There is a built-in confrontation point on Sept. 30, after the conventions, when the Energy Department appropriation which contains the ban on drilling requires action - either a new bill or a continuing resolution. This is far more propitious for Republican political prospects.

Old GWB is a far better poker player than any of the effete snobs who are calling the shots for the Democrats.

Regards,
Roy

[baldilocks]

I hope you're correct.