Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today announced that he will return to Washington, DC early next week to take part in the efforts of House Republicans to call for a vote on domestic oil and gas production immediately. Simpson will join several of his House colleagues in calling on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to immediately call the House of Representatives back into session so it can deal with high gas prices.
 
“I have been proud of my Republican colleagues who have remained in Washington trying to force the House back into session and I am looking forward to joining them next week,” said Simpson. “While American families are hurting from high gas prices, Speaker Pelosi has put the House in recess. Republicans are ready to vote right now on legislation that would address high prices by every means possible – drilling, conservation, renewables, and anything else that will help make our nation energy independent.”
 
Earlier this month, the Democrat led House of Representatives was forced into adjournment by Speaker Pelosi in order to avoid voting on legislation intended to wean our nation off middle-east oil. When Republicans remained in the House chamber, she ordered the C-Span cameras to stop filming, shut off the microphones, and turned out the lights. House Republicans have remained, however, and have engaged in daily discussions with constituents who are coming to the House floor to hear directly from their elected officials. Simpson will join these daily discussions next week.
 
“It is time for the House of Representatives to get back to work and for House Democrats to allow an open debate and vote on expanded domestic oil and gas production,” said Simpson. “I am sick and tired of sending hundreds of billions of dollars a year to the tyrants who both control our oil supply and fund our enemies. The American people are demanding action – unfortunately House Democrats are unwilling to act.”