Published: 05-15-08
WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn R-Texas Vice-Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference questioned the priorities of the Democratic-led Senate following their successful effort today to block a bill boosting educational benefits for military personnel and veterans. This came just one day after the Majority defeated a sweeping domestic energy bill aimed at lowering gas prices and reducing our dependence on foreign oil.
Sen. Cornyn and other Republicans sought to call up and pass the Enhancement of Recruitment Retention and Readjustment through Education Act S. 2938 which will enhance the existing Montgomery G.I. Bill to improve benefits for active duty service members veterans and members of the National Guard and Reserve.
Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid subsequently led an effort by the Majority to “table” the bill thereby preventing any further debate or a final vote.
“Republicans are working hard to lower gas prices protect America and support veterans. Unfortunately yesterday’s vote defeating the energy bill was a vote for the status quo – a vote for high gas prices and continued energy dependence. Only 42 Senators voted to take action on high prices of gasoline at the pump. This is a matter of both economic security and national security. This is not the time for Congress to turn a deaf ear to the cries of the American people to do something to help bring relief at the pump” Sen. Cornyn said.
Sen. Cornyn noted this is not a single occurrence but instead a pattern of inaction by House and Senate Democrats who have similarly failed to act on modernizing our foreign intelligence surveillance laws the Colombia Free Trade Agreement and dozens of judicial nominations. “Most of us came to Washington – to the Congress – to try to solve problems. Unfortunately the mentality inside-the-beltway seems to be that more time should be spent making partisan political attacks instead of working together. The continued delays on these important issues are inexplicable to me” Sen. Cornyn said today.
Sen. Cornyn took to the Senate floor again late this afternoon following the vote to block the Enhancement of Recruitment Retention and Readjustment through Education Act. “The G.I. Bill is in desperate need of reform particularly as more of our soldiers return home. Just as they have done their duty for us we must fulfill our obligation to them. I simply do not understand why the Democratic majority prevented consideration of this important measure today but I will continue to fight to bring it to the floor for a vote in the days ahead” Sen. Cornyn said.
