President Barack Obama on Tuesday vetoed legislation to force construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, his first veto of the Republican-led Congress.
The president sent the Senate the following message, according to the White House.
I am returning herewith without my approval S. 1, the”Keystone XL Pipeline Approval Act.” Through this bill, the United States Congress attempts to circumvent longstanding and proven processes for determining whether or not building and operating a cross-border pipeline serves the national interest.
The Presidential power to veto legislation is one I take seriously. But I also take seriously my responsibility to the American people. And because this act of Congress conflicts with established executive branch procedures and cuts short thorough consideration of issues that could bear on our national interest — including our security, safety, and environment — it has earned my veto.
House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) torched the president’s expected move.
“The president’s veto of the Keystone jobs bill is a national embarrassment,” he said, adding: “The president is just too close to environmental extremists to stand up for America’s workers. He’s too invested in left-fringe politics to do what presidents are called on to do, and that’s put the national interest first.”
