John Boehner, the Speaker of the House, wants President Barack Obama to delay his speech to a joint session of Congress scheduled for next Wednesday.
"It is my recommendation that your address be held on the following evening, when we can ensure there will be no parliamentary or logistical impediments that might detract from your remarks," Boehner said in a letter to the president as reported by NBC News.
Obama has asked Congress to speak about his much-anticipated jobs proposal at 8 p.m. EDT next Wednesday, but it overlaps with a previously scheduled Republican debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif.
The Associated Press reported that Boehner said the combination of a late vote in the House and security measures needed for Obama’s address warranted a delay.
"I respectfully invite you to address a Joint Session of Congress on Thursday, September 8, 2011 in the House Chamber, at a time that works best for your schedule," he said in the letter.
A White House source said that they consulted with Boehner’s office about the Wednesday date and heard no objections about the timing. However, Boehner’s office countered that the White House account was not accurate.
