WASHINGTON — President Bush scolded lawmakers Tuesday, saying the Democratic-led Congress hasn’t “seen a bill they could not solve without shoving a tax hike into it.”
Bush, who has been criticized himself for government spending increases, chided Congress for failing to send him any appropriations bills even though the government started a new budget year on Oct. 1.
“The leadership that’s on the Hill now can’t get that done,” Bush said, standing outside the White House with Republican leaders.
Bush also warned Congress not to bother sending him another version of a children’s health-insurance bill that he will not sign.
Bush vetoed the legislation once; the House has passed a revamped version that he does not support; and the Senate is expected to take it up soon.
“After going alone and going nowhere, Congress should instead work with the administration on a bill that puts poor children first,” Bush said.
Bush’s appearance was part of a growing effort to blame Congress for a stalemate in Washington.
The Associated Press
