Democrats are now planning a lighter schedule when the 110th Congress begins its second year in mid-January, according to a report in the New York Times.
House majority leader, Rep. Steny H. Hoyer , D-Md., annunced this week that the House would not be in session next year on Fridays -- except in June for work on appropriations bills.
Explaining the schedule to reporters, Hoyer said, “I do intend to have more time for members to work in their districts and to be close to their families.”
The dimished work schedule drew commentary from across the aisle.
“Unlike Congress, the American people do not mistake motion for progress,” said Rep. Thaddeus G. McCotter, R-Mich. “They want results. And given the approval ratings, they are certainly convinced they aren’t getting them.”
McCotter charged that abridging the schedule was an example of Democrats’ breaking promises. “They said ‘five-day weeks,’ ” he said.
He also downplayed the notion that Hoyer was also responding to Republicans who wanted more time in their home districts.
“I wish he had that much concern and was as responsive to Republicans’ calls for input on major legislation,” Mr. McCotter said.
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