GOP to protest up to Democrats' convention

WASHINGTON, Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Republicans say they'll protest Democratic energy policies from the U.S. House of Representatives floor until the start of the Democratic Party convention.

"Republicans will not rest until we have an honest, up-or-down vote on the American Energy Act," House Minority Leader Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio, wrote in a memo. "To that end, we request that you contact the (Minority) Whip's Office and indicate any time you may have available to come to Capitol in the coming weeks."

The memo specifically asked that House Republican members indicate their availability from Aug. 11-22, The Hill reported Thursday. The Democratic National Convention is Aug. 25-28.

Republicans began their protest Friday when the House adjourned for its August recess and have been making speeches on energy policy on the House floor since.

"The nationwide House GOP energy protest is making history and we are writing to announce that the call to arms will continue," Boehner said in the memo. "And with your help, we will keep the pressure on the (House) Speaker until she gives the American people the energy vote they want, need and deserve."

House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has called the action a publicity stunt, The Hill said.