GOP senator chairing debate not paying attention, signs autographs

[quaoar]

The GOP obviously has no interest in listening to arguments or debate. They'd rather make jokes, pick their nose, whatever.

http://www.thehill.com/thehill/export/TheHill/News/Frontpage/051705/sens.html

Guess who's not listening when sens. rise to speak
By Geoff Earle

Senators give impassioned floor speeches in the hope of persuading colleagues, or at least of impressing TV viewers watching across the land. But the person they are supposedly addressing — the Republican senator chairing the Senate on the dais — isn’t always paying attention.

Last Monday, while Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tenn.) was speaking about the grave injustice of judicial filibusters, Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.), sitting in the chair at the head of the chamber, could be seen autographing stacks of 8-by-10 photographs.

Later, when Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) urged his colleagues to find a compromise that would avert a major confrontation on the filibuster, Burr was still signing photos.

In fact, Burr says, he signed about 1,400 photographs that day, and explains their importance by saying, “I still have my school picture at home” from a childhood trip to Washington.” He says he likes to try to give a similar opportunity to his constituents, sending a signed photo to those who visit his office. He says he signs about 1,000 each week.

[gratuitous]

1. At least he's doing something useful, says I

It's not like he's being called on to make a decision or anything. He's probably already made up his mind that he's going to vote to go nuclear. Though who would want a signed picture from Mr. Burr is beyond me. Hasn't this doofus ever heard of an autopen?

[MuseRider]

2. I think I will try to get one of those

to hang next to my picture of George and Laura that I made into a dart board. It would be perfect.

[buff2]

3. Nice to see our taxpayer $$$$$$$$$$ at work.

This really pisses me off. :argh:

[napi21]

4. That happens all the time! None of 'em pay attention.

Haven't you ever heard Sens have to repeat "Mr. President!" I guess there has to be someone in the chair while Cheney isn't there. Same damn thing happens in the House.

[kaygore]

5. I listened to him on CSPAN--an ass

I was NOT impressed although he seemed most impressed with himself.

I pity the people of North Caroilina for having two asses inthe senate.