The Democratic-held House on Friday authorizedproxy voting for the first time in its history, due to the coronavirus pandemic — disregarding Republican claims that the change is unconstitutional and unwise.
The reform was adopted in a near-party-line 217-189 vote, with all Republicans opposed and joined in their nay votes by three Democrats and Libertarian Rep. Justin Amash of Michigan.
Under the new rules, lawmakers can vote on behalf of up to 10 colleagues if they have written letters authorizing them to do so.
Democrats said it was a reasonable and temporary measure to ensure sick and vulnerable colleagues have a say in legislation during the the crisis.
But Republicans argued that in practice, the reform will allow party bosses to gain more control. Many Republicans said the change was unconstitutional, and could trigger a legal challenge.
“Aren’t we proving today that we don’t need a virtual Congress?” said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).
“We can continue to work in a safe and effective manner… Remote voting should be the final and last option.”
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5 comments:
And this is why we need to get a republican majority back in Congress. Every opportunity the dems get to dismantle the Constitution they will take.
Calais city in Maine. Their city council voted to up up against governors orders. We need to do the same. We need to pressure our local leaders.
The people trying to keep the country closed don’t have to show up for work and get their pay check every week
Oh no. If we have to be "brave" and go back to work like the President and Unemployment said, sk do they. No double standards here. We are all in this together.
Whatever happened to government of the People by the people for the people?
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