GOP threatens to block adjournment

House Republican leaders are threatening to attempt to keep the chamber in session beyond next week if they do not get a vote on the energy package they introduced last week.

In a memo circulated to the GOP caucus, House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) implored his members to vote against adjournment for the August recess if the minority cannot secure a vote on offshore drilling or their “all of the above” energy plan.

{mosads}Since June, Democrats have used the suspension calendar to attempt to move their own energy bills, but have not been able to win enough Republican votes. Bills brought to the floor under suspension of the rules require a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Republicans have accused Democrats of employing the tactic to avoid a GOP-desired vote on increased domestic exploration and drilling. Democrats counter that they are holding suspension votes in response to veto threats from the White House. Bills that clear the House on the suspension calendar would have veto-proof majorities.

Amid the procedural fights, the House has been unable to move any legislation aimed at driving down the price of gas.

“For months, the Democratic leadership has defied the will of the American people and a bipartisan majority in the House by refusing to allow a vote on real energy reform,” Boehner wrote. “I’m tired of it. You’re tired of it. And the American people are tired of it.”

“If the Democratic majority refuses to allow a vote next week on the American Energy Act, a vote for the adjournment resolution will be a vote against the American people and a vote against American energy independence,” he continued. ”The House should not adjourn for the August District Work Period until a vote has taken place on the energy reforms the American people want.”

Democratic aides said Republicans are just scrambling for pre-recess cover.

“The GOP’s ’All of the Above’ plan apparently includes voting against the litany of bills Democrats have offered to increase supply, protect consumers and bring down gas prices,” said Drew Hammill, spokesman for Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). “It comes as no surprise that the Republican leadership wants their Members here in Washington rather than at home explaining their records to their constituents.”