Why did Senator Burr vote against this bill?

[rnc2mbfl]

Originally Posted by jskirwin

If you read the link you'll see that Burr's point is that the law isn't necessary, and that the law makes it look like the President is doing something when he's not. Congress is already covered by existing insider trading laws.



Burr argues it's meaningless political theater, and he would rather spend the time and effort on issues that do matter - like the economy, regulation and taxes driving jobs overseas, etc. Given how Obama's reelection strategy is to run against Congress, it behooves him to avoid those substantive issues.

Or it could be that the he wants to make sure that nothing gets done so that they can blame the president?

Rest assured, the Republicans have plenty of bills that they push that aren't necessary but they push them anyway as if there's a crisis.

[ncjeff]

These things tend to get voted down based on the separation of powers. Congress is unlikely to pass a bill that allows the justice department the ability to kick off investigations of representatives and senators.

[SunnyKayak]

Also on why Richard Burr voted nohe owns stock in two companies which would benefit from a bill he co-sponsored giving tax breaks to those exploring natural gas-fueled vehicles.
Why does Richard Burr favor a pass for congressional insider trading? | The CLog

[Catbirds]

Originally Posted by rnc2mbfl

He probably figures that the electorate will forget about it by the time he's up for re-election. Unfortunately, he's probably correct.

I will not forget!

[MikeyKid]

It's a joke... of course there should be a law and he deflects just like any true politician (I don't care which party you align yourself with). Protecting his revenue stream.

Similarly, supreme court justices aren't held to the same conflict of interest standards any tiny municipal judge is... They can openly be wined and dined by lobbyists with no fear of repercussions.

Laws are for us silly little people.