Email to Congressman Vern Buchanan

I subscribe to a C-SPAN service which gives me a weekly report on the votes taken by Florida Senators Nelson and LeMieux as well as my congressman, Vern Buchanan. Today I learned that Mr. Buchanan did not vote on a measure which would allow emergency access to the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund. As Buchanan's congressional district (Florida 13th) borders the Gulf of Mexico, I am astounded at the fact he did not vote on the measure, undoubtedly because he did not wish to vote against it. In any event, I was upset enough to write him an email via his website to find out why he did not vote for the measure. The text follows:

Re: S. 3473 to amend the Oil Pollution Act of 1990

Dear Congressman Buchanan:

In a measure to suspend the rules and make it easier for the Administration to withdraw money from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, a measure which was passed, overwhelmingly, by a 410-0, with one voting "present" and 20 Representatives (including yourself) not voting, I am wondering why you did not feel it necessary to register a vote on this most important of matters. The Gulf of Mexico which, unless you have forgotten, borders the 13th Florida Congressional District. It is facing the worst catastrophe in our history, yet you apparently did not feel it necessary to register a vote, even a "nay" one at that.

I know you have been a constant opponent of Obama's spending policies. However, this crisis, caused by BP's negligence (which John Boehner wants a bailout) is one that the Administration may need access to without jumping through a lot of hoops.

So, please, explain to me why you did not feel it necessary to vote on this measure.

Sincerely,

David P. Hilsheimer

I will be interested in his answer, something other than "Thank you for contacting me..." which I received shortly after hitting the "Send" button.