Fox News host Maria Bartiromo received an impromptu civics lesson on Friday from Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.) after she questioned how the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD To Housing Act could become law without President Donald Trump's signature.
Bartiromo's Confusion Over Presidential Inaction
During a live segment, Bartiromo asked Hill directly: “Does this become law even though the president doesn’t sign it?” Hill responded by citing Article 1, Section 7 of the U.S. Constitution, which stipulates that a bill becomes law if the president does not sign or veto it within 10 days (excluding Sundays) after Congress sends it to the White House. The bill would become law at midnight on Friday, according to Hill.
Despite the clear explanation, Bartiromo remained puzzled. “But I don’t understand how it becomes law even though the president doesn’t sign it,” she said.
Hill's Detailed Breakdown and 'Civics 101' Remark
Hill then elaborated further: “Section 7 of the Constitution says the president has basically, there are three choices when Congress passes a bill and sends it to the president’s desk. He may sign it, he may veto it, or 10 days after it’s transmitted to the White House, it becomes law without his signature.”
After Bartiromo thanked him, Hill delivered a pointed closing line: “Civics 101, Maria.” The exchange was captured on video and shared on social media by journalist Aaron Rupar.
Background on the Housing Act and Trump's Stance
Late last month, Congress overwhelmingly passed the 21st Century ROAD To Housing Act. President Trump initially indicated he would sign the bill but abruptly canceled the signing ceremony. Trump later stated he would not sign the legislation until Congress passed his proposed “SAVE America Act.” The Constitution's default mechanism, however, allows the bill to become law without his signature after the 10-day period expires.
