WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. House Democratic leaders called on Speaker John Boehner Thursday to cancel the House recess until economic, budgetary and job-related issues are addressed.
"Our nation can ill-afford economic uncertainty that will result from Congress remaining idle for another six weeks," Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi said in the letter. "The American people are counting on us to keep moving the nation forward for jobs, economic recovery and a stronger middle class."
The House is scheduled to adjourn Friday, the calendar posted by House Majority Leader Eric Cantor indicates. House members are scheduled to be in Washington Oct. 1-6 before adjourning until Nov. 13.
Also signing the letter were Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer, Assistant Democratic leader James Clyburn, Democratic Caucus Chairman John Larson, Democratic Caucus Vice Chairman Xavier Becerra and Budget Committee Ranking Member Chris Van Hollen.
Before returning home, Congress "must pass" a balanced plan to prevent painful budget reductions, extend the middle-income tax cuts, pass President Obama's jobs bill and work to pass a long-term farm bill, the letter said.
"The American people have every right to expect more than the eight days of voting you have allotted between Aug. 3 and Election Day on Nov. 6," the letter said. "As members of the Democratic leadership, we are writing to urge that the Republican leadership not adjourn the House this week, as you have planned."
