To: Vulnerable House Republican Cresent Hardy
From: Office of Speaker Paul D. Ryan
Re: Recess Message Guidance
Over the next two weeks, the three of you will be holding public events in your districts, or at the very least, having semi-public conversations with local reporters that you can’t avoid anymore because you’re home for 12 business days. Given our adjournment without even passing the long-promised budget, we recognize that you might have a difficult time explaining to the folks back home why you can’t do basic parts of your job and why the House of Representatives still isn’t working, even after Speaker Ryan took over. Below are some suggested talking points to help you answer tough questions:
Why hasn’t Congress passed a budget yet? I thought you were going to do that?
We’re working on it. We have missed many of our self-imposed deadlines, but technically have until April 15th . Hopefully by then Speaker Ryan can “unite the clans” and end the constant Republican infighting that has become a trademark of the Republican conference and the budget negotiations, especially.
But aren’t you out on recess until April 11?
Yup. We sure are.
But doesn’t that mean you only have four days…?
It’s going to be fine. Next question.
On February 2nd, President Obama requested funding from Congress to fight opioid addiction, which has become a disturbing health crisis in…
I’m for that. We should definitely find the money to combat this serious problem.
Well, why hasn’t Congress done anything?
Next question please.
On February 22nd, President Obama requested funding to fight the Zika virus…
That’s a real issue that we need to address. Mosquito season is right around the corner.
Good to know, so why hasn’t Congress done anything?
Next question please.
Speaker Ryan set a deadline of March 31st to help resolve the Puerto Rico debt crisis…
He sure did.
But, again, you’re on recess until April 11?
Yes. It’s fine. We’re working on it.
Moving right along, the House has had three hearings on the Flint water crisis, multiple Members have visited Flint, and there’s even a bill to help the children and families suffering there. When is Congress going to do something to help them?
Can someone ask a question about repealing Obamacare? We’ve voted to do that 63 times. Or how about the 12 times we voted to de-fund Planned Parenthood this Congress? Or the vote we all took to send a brief to the Supreme Court because we want to rip families apart by overturning President Obama’s immigration action.
Oh, speaking of the Supreme Court …
Oh boy.
… Do you support the Republicans in the Senate who say there shouldn’t even be hearings on the President’s nominee to the Supreme Court?
You know what, I think it’s time for me to get going.
One more question. If Donald Trump wins the Republican nomination, will you support him?
[Abruptly end the interview/press conference/town hall, either by running out a side door, having a staff member pull the fire alarm or the tried-and-true “hey everyone, look over there” trick]