Sam Gejdenson: “what is hard to figure out is whether we should be happy that the majority Republicans want to do nothing and are…”

“what is hard to figure out is whether we should be happy that the majority Republicans want to do nothing and are succeeding because it seems if they try to do something, it would either be inconsequential or bad for the country. But it is clear whether we look at prescription drugs, whether we look at a patients' bill of rights, rational gun laws, education or energy, that there is a concerted effort to take no reasonable action. For 6 years, no effort on increasing the efficiency of automobiles. We cannot in the midst of this crisis get the majority to reauthorize the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. A few years ago, they wanted to dismantle it. Even in the midst of this crisis, they cannot get themselves together to bring a bill to the floor, and the rule prohibits us frankly from dealing with reestablishing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. So what are we doing here? Well, we are going to ask the President to study the matter, and when he finishes studying the matter, we want him to report to us and we want him to take strong, united, diplomatic action. Pick up the phone. Pick up the phone and call the White House. Frankly, they are doing diplomatic action. I do not think a lot of what they have done is enough. But for God's sakes, this Congress coming here with this bill today is an embarrassment. Why?”