Recess Appointment Rumors Continue to Grab Washington’s Attention

Over Christmas weekend and up to this afternoon, the DC media continues to focus on the chances of President Obama going over Congress’ head to make recess appointments, especially in regards to the CFPB Director vacancy.

The Hill reports: “And the 20th Amendment of the Constitution states that Congress shall assemble at least once a year, with each session beginning at noon on Jan. 3. Given that a new session must begin at that day, logic follows that Congress must adjourn for some period of time beforehand, however brief.

In fact, Theodore Roosevelt took advantage of this quirk of the congressional calendar to push through nearly 200 nominees in a matter of seconds, when the Senate gaveled to close one session before almost immediately opening the new year’s.

The Dec. 8, 1903, story by The New York Times detailing the unprecedented move began succinctly: “Congress passed from one session to another to-day in a unique manner.”

If the president does pull out such an unorthodox maneuver, the blowback from Republicans would likely be substantial. But for backers of the CFPB, they see little choice.

“It might be necessary to take unprecedented steps even though nobody, including me, wanted them,” said Plunkett. “I don’t want to see the Senate at war over this, but I’m not sure there are that many choices left.”

The USA Today reports: “Senate Republicans say refusing to confirm a nominee is the only recourse they have left after Democrats pushed through legislation without listening to GOP concerns about transparency and accountability.”