Senate Censure Resolution against the President

This video originally aired on Monday, March 13, 2006.

About This Video

Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WI) introduces a censure resolution against President Bush, claiming he violated the FISA (wiretapping) law and misled the public. Read the resolution: http://feingold.senate.gov/censureresolution.pdf

Discussion Questions

  1. What is “censure”? What is its legal effect if it passes?
  2. What are his reasons for introducing the censure resolution? Why would a member of Congress take this step? Should the other branches be involved if the president is suspected of breaking a law?
  3. What is the rhetorical effect of referring to what the “founders” intended when defending or advocating for positions or policies?
  4. Does the Senator’s resolution have support amongst other Senators? What other goals might he have besides the successful passage of this resolution?

Keywords

Events and Trends, LEGISLATIVE, President, Procedure, Separation of Powers, U.S. Senate

Related Subjects/Topics

  • U.S. Senate
  • Checks and Balances
  • Civil Liberties
  • Rule of Law
  • Separation of Powers
  • U.S. Constitution

Speakers

  • Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WI)