'There would be martial law in America if we voted no.' --Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Calif., 27th District) says Congress threatened with Martial Law if bill is not passed --Posted by saluki420 02 Oct 2008 Transcript: The only way they can pass this bill is by creating and sustaining a panic atmosphere. That atmosphere is not justified. Many of us were told in private conversations that if we voted against this bill on Monday, that the sky would fall, the Market would drop two or three thousand points the first day-another couple thousand the second day-and a few members were even told that there would be martial law in America if we voted no. That's what I call fearmongering. Unjustified. Proven wrong.