Talk about political suicide for the Republican party! There has been speculation going around that President Bush could pull a "pocket veto" on The Secure Fence Act (HR 6061) that he still hasn't signed yet. The act approves 700 miles of fence along the southern border.
The Secure Fence Act passed on September 29th and there has already been many politicians touting their voting for it. It has also already been pointed out that Republican leadership have already worked behind the scenes to undermine this bill and now there is the issue of the "pocket veto".
Captain's Quarters has a great piece on "pocket vetos" and posts Article 1 Section 7 of the Constitution which within states:
If any Bill shall not be returned by the President within ten Days (Sundays excepted) after it shall have been presented to him, the Same shall be a Law, in like Manner as if he had signed it, unless the Congress by their Adjournment prevent its Return, in which Case it shall not be a Law.
Since Congress has adjourned the latter applies.
However, if President Bush doesn't sign this bill I can guarantee you that there will be hell to pay for the Republican party. Sure immigration is not everyone's top issue, but it is a top issue of enough Republican voters that if they see this deliberate crap tactic play out they can easily swing The House to the Dems through not voting at all or placing a protest vote.
Other Commentary:
Freedom Folks
Say Anything
Slate
Congress has not adjourned, it is in recess. Adjournment is termed for the adjournment sine die.
The 10 days starts upon receipt of the bill by the Office of the President, not the date on which it passes both Houses.
It should be noted that after the bill passes the Houses it is sent to the National Archives for printing and preparation before being presented to the President.
Posted by: Mike on October 19, 2006 09:30 AM
