Indiana Rep. Mike Pence

Why: When the House of Representatives voted 213-212 to adjourn for the August recess without voting on bipartisan proposals meant to do something to lower $4-per-gallon gas, the telegenic Pence took to the chamber’s floor, saying President Bush should call Congress back into a special energy session.

How: Pence said, “Mr. President, if this Congress tries to leave town without voting on more drilling, use your constitutional authority, bring ’em back and make ’em work!” Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution gives the President the authority to convene Congress “on extraordinary occasions.”