Here are some excerpts from Raw Story:
...Speaking for the House Republican leadership, Roy Blunt, the Republican Whip, complained during the floor debate that the five-day work week was making life harder for Members of Congress from both parties. He also described the schedule as "a disservice to the institution," because "It is like assuming that a surgeon only does the surgeon's work when they are in the operating room."
In an e-mail response to RAW STORY, a Democratic Leadership aide stated unequivocally that no changes to the five-day work schedule were planned.
Blunt complained about the tone of discussions regarding the longer work week dictated by House Democrats, saying that "the majority has had the better of this argument so far because it is a lot of fun to talk about Members of Congress that don't work." He also mentioned that "The late night comedians love the idea that Congress was suddenly going to work 5 days a week."
His remarks came after the House voted unanimously to reform the management of the Page Board, prompted by last Fall's scandal involving Republican Rep. Mark Foley of Florida.....
...Rep. Steny Hoyer, the Democratic Majority Leader who set the House's five-day work week, acknowledged Blunt's point. "I agree 100 percent with the minority whip when he indicates that our Members are working, whether they are here on this floor or they are at home," he said.
But the Maryland Democrat held firm. He noted that a continuing resolution would need to be passed for the government's budget because 9 of 11 appropriations bills were not completed during the last Congress, and added "I want you to also know that I think it is our responsibility and duty to the American people to be here in sufficient time to allow us to do the people's business."
In response, Blunt tried to shift the blame for the failure to complete the nine spending bills away from the Republican majority in the 109th Congress....I have no sympathy for these Republican jerks. I have a few reasons why they need to work as much as possible.
1. We have a war going on and they need to work longer and harder to end the war and get our troops home. People are dying in the war.
2. We are paying the salaries and benefits for these elected lawmakers. They need to work for the money like regular people.
3. If these Republicans feel they are being forced to work, they should resign. They are an infinite number of more talented people who will gladly take their jobs and be grateful for the money.
Republican Rep. Roy Blunt enjoyed the gravy train while the GOP was the majority party. If Blunt can't work with dedication, honesty, and effort, then he needs to go home.
