Parties cry foul over spate of homestate showdowns

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Parties cry foul over spate of homestate showdowns
By Michael O’Brien and Molly K. Hooper
Posted: 08/05/09 08:22 PM


Congress’s normally lax August recess is shaping up to be a tumultuous time this year as a deluge of protesters, fueled by political parties and interest groups, greet lawmakers in their home states.

The showdowns between lawmakers and constituents have not only fueled the high-stakes battle over healthcare reform but also started a debate over the authenticity of the interruptions.

With websites like EmbarrassYourCongressman.com encouraging activists to upload video and pictures from the heated meetings, Democratic members are asking Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) whether they should continue holding town hall meetings with large numbers of people, according to leadership aides.

The Speaker has advised her rank and file to do what they deem appropriate. She said scheduled town hall meetings should go ahead as planned.There are other ways to get the message out, including tele-town halls, interviews, one-on-one meetings with constituents and news conferences, leadership aides said.

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http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/parties-cry-foul-over-spate-of--homestate-showdowns-2009-08-05.html