Defying the wishes of a majority of Americans and their representatives, President George W. Bush vetoed a bill allowing federal money to go to embryonic stem cell research. Although this veto was devastating to the millions who are familiar with the pain associated with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, cancer, and spinal injuries, the veto was also indicative of the palpable disunity present in the GOP.
Even before the President’s veto, there were hints of disagreement between the Republican-held Congress and the president over national security, as the president threatened to veto legislation challenging the Dubai Ports Deal. These disagreements between Congress and the President became even more apparent when the two parties could not agree on remedial legislation dealing with the illegal immigration issue.
If that weren’t enough, Judiciary Committee Chairman Arlen Specter (R-Penn.) said he plans to introduce legislation this week that would give Congress the right to bring a lawsuit against the president’s signing statements – Bush’s practice of claiming a right to ignore or not enforce sections of bills that he signs into law. You might remember that Mr. Specter was also very critical of NSA’s warrantless surveillance program.
Once noted and admired for their incredible ability to maintain a unified front, the intense spotlight associated with the difficult issues is finally beginning to reveal rifts amongst the GOP.
Patrick Molnar
Business administration senior