House Republicans blocked a Democratic attempt Wednesday to call up the Senate payroll tax bill by quickly gaveling today's pro forma session to a close.
Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) presided over the brief pro forma session, and after the pledge of allegiance closed the session and said the next pro forma would be on Friday. But as he walked away, House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) protested the move.
"You're walking out, you're walking away, just as so many Republicans have walked away from middle class taxpayers, the unemployed, and… those who will be seeking medical assistance from their doctors."
Fitzpatrick never recognized Hoyer, and gaveled the session closed.
"We regret, Mr. Speaker, that you have walked off the platform without addressing the issue of critical importance to this country," he added.
Hoyer then yielded to House Budget Committee Ranking Member Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), who began to speak to a chamber that had no presiding officer. C-SPAN's coverage of the floor ended moments after Van Hollen started speaking.
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