Congress could pass a "comprehensive energy plan" if politicians set aside partisan interests, Rep. Mike Pence (R-District 6), told locals Tuesday afternoon.

During a two-day break from his protest in Washington, where he is demanding that Congress return from recess to address high gas prices, Pence visited Muncie on Wednesday and Richmond on Thursday for town hall meetings addressing energy policy.

Rep. Mike Pence was one of the Republican lawmakers who stayed in the chamber after recess to make a point this week. He reiterated it in Richmond Thursday.

"Congress should not be taking a five-week paid vacation while Americans struggle with high gas prices," he said.

Pence remains convinced there are enough bipartisan votes on the floor of the House to pass the American Energy Act and he continues his effort to bring lawmakers back to the nations capital to vote on it.