Is it not fair to ask candidates (debate or interview) if they intend to use recess appts. and

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

signing statements the way Bush has?

[onenote]

1. sure its fair

And I would expect Democratic candidates to say that they will not use them the way Bush has (but won't rule out using them) and repub candidates to say that they will use them "appropriately", to mention that they've been used in the past by presidents from both parties and to avoid saying whether or not they think chimpy's use has been appropriate or not. At the end of the day, I'm not sure that you've learned much that you wouldn't already know.

[robinlynne]

2. sure it is. This is job interview time. The time to ask all questions.

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

6. But are they getting asked these questions? As opposed to, "do your kids go to private school"?

[angrycarpenter]

3. not only fair,it's crucial

[RC]

4. Also ask then if they think

bu$h used the signing statements appropriately or if he abused them.

Get them on the record.

[MiniMe]

5. There are signing statements and there are signing statements

I don't know if any other President has used the signing statement to try to change a law until chimpy. I would guess not. I don't have a problem with Presidents using a signing statement for clarification purposes, but Chimpy has ruined it for anybody who comes after him by taking advantage of it.

I can't wait for the repukes to start crying if the next democratic president uses one.