Neither the framers nor subsequent political leaders had built in to the constitutional framework any plans to reconstitute Congress in the event of a catastrophe like 9/11. I called for Congressional leaders to at least create a commission to study the problem and potential solutions.

The Continuity of Representation Act of 2005: Itstitle suggests that the bill provides for the continuity of Congress after a catastrophic terrorist attack. Sadly, it does nothing of the sort.

The continuity issue is finally on the Congressional agenda, 21 months after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

The author responds to letters from lawmakers.

Testimony by Norman J. Ornstein Testimony before the Committee on the House Administration on May 1, 2002. "What is most urgent for this body to consider is how to make sure that the Congress has adequate membership to operate after an attack."

Our commission did not come lightly to the conclusion in favor of a constitutional amendments providing for temporary appointments in the case of mass vacancies and incapacitations.

Steps need to be taken to ensure continuity of Congress if a devasting attack occurred.

Testimony by Norman J. Ornstein before the House Committee on the Judiciary on February 28, 2002.