Hoyer: “Republicans are not being honest with the American people”

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) held his weekly pen and pad briefing today. He spoke in support of presumptive democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama’s visit to Iraq and Afghanistan, saying Obama’s comments were measured, responsible and well received by the international community.

On the recent oil and gas prices, Hoyer said, “Republicans are not being honest with the American people.” He said all Republicans voted against extending renewable tax incentives, and are speaking poorly about the Democratically held Congress to deflect attention from their failed energy policies. Hoyer said that the United States is currently not drilling the 68 million acres of land available, and should focus on getting that oil before moving on to the Outer Continental Shelf or drilling in ANWR.

Hoyer spoke about the housing crisis and said that the economy will be deeply effected if we do not stabilize Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac. Hoyer spoke positively about a housing bill currently going through Congress, President Bush has said he will not veto the bill. The housing bill will be a major stimulus bill and is expected to pass is great bipartisan support.