Here is a Zen-like question:

How can Congress be on recess - when it's really not?

That's the state of affairs in Washington after the House of Representatives defeated what is usually a routine "adjournment resolution" for August on Thursday. The resolution would allow lawmakers to escape the Capitol and head to their districts to campaign and attend the political conventions.

The bottom line: Congress is technically NOT on August recess.

On Thursday, the Senate voted to adjourn by unanimous consent. But the House did not, voting 265-150. All 187 Democrats who voted cast nay ballots - coupled with noes from 78 Republicans to defeat the resolution.

Why is this important?

Article I, Section 5 of the Constitution says "Neither House, during the Session of Congress, shall, without the Consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days...."

So that eliminates the ability of the House and Senate to disappear for five weeks until September 10.