Congressional officials said President Obama has used his recess appointment powers Wednesday to name a head for the controversial new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in a move Republican lawmakers said amounted to an unconstitutional power grab.
Mr. Obama made the appointment of former Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray even though the Senate, which has the power to confirm nominees, considers itself still in session.
But the White House argues Republican senators stonewalled the nominee for so long that Mr. Obama had no choice but to circumvent them.
In making the appointment, Mr. Obama rejected the precedent set by former President Clinton and the precedent Mr. Obama and his fellow Democrats set under President George W. Bush in 2007 and 2008.
“Although the Senate is not in recess, President Obama, in an unprecedented move, has arrogantly circumvented the American people,” said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Kentucky Republican....
UPDATE: This action is being met by unanimous adulation on the far Left. Typical comment at Puffington Host:
My Prez! Coming back from Hawaii with full mojo! I already love 2012!
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