Democrats: GOP nullification bill defies common sense

BOISE (AP) - House Democrats accused Republicans of voting for a bill with roots in the 1700s "in defiance of common sense."

Minority Leader John Rusche labeled Wednesday's GOP vote to introduce "nullification" - to fight President Barack Obama's health care overhaul - as "meaningless grandstanding" and an "appalling" waste of time.

Rusche said the vote could also be dangerous, since it conflicts with lawmakers' sworn oaths of office.

Though GOP members of the House State Affairs Committee did vote as a bloc, some indicated they did so to hear more about it - not because they supported it.

Rep. Eric Anderson, from Priest Lake, wanted a copy of an Idaho attorney general's opinion concluding nullification is unconstitutional.

Rep. Lynn Luker, from Boise, also was troubled by the concept.