Republican Revolt Anna Paulina Luna Crushes Effort To Kill Proxy Voting For New Moms And Dads

Published:

14 hours ago

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) successfully fought off a Republican-led attempt to block proxy voting for new parents, dealing a significant blow to Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). The measure, which allows lawmakers to cast votes remotely for up to three months after childbirth, advanced with support from nine House Republicans and all Democrats. For more updates check our Youtube channel.

Luna’s bill was nearly shut down through a GOP-backed procedural move, but the effort failed in a 222-206 vote. This gives the House two legislative days to debate and vote on the bill. The initiative was particularly personal for Luna, who gave birth to her first child in 2023.

After the vote, she celebrated, saying, “Never bet against a Luna.”

Democrats, led by Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.), rallied behind the bill. Pettersen, holding her two-month-old son in the House chamber, argued that failing to modernize voting procedures disenfranchises lawmakers and their constituents. Johnson and other GOP leaders, however, opposed the move, citing constitutional concerns. Johnson emphasized that the Constitution requires a majority of lawmakers to be physically present to conduct business, warning that proxy voting could set a dangerous precedent.

Republicans banned proxy voting in 2023 after regaining the House, arguing it was unconstitutional. The practice was originally introduced by former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conservative lawmakers like Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) strongly opposed Luna’s measure, arguing that members of Congress should show up in person, just like regular workers.

Despite GOP opposition, Luna’s effort was backed by Republican lawmakers including Tim Burchett (Tenn.), Mike Lawler (N.Y.), and Greg Steube (Fla.). Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio) defended his support for the bill, citing his own experience as a new father. He said he could not, in good conscience, vote against a measure that helps new parents balance family and duty.

The final vote on Luna’s bill is expected next week. If passed, it will mark a major shift in congressional procedures and a rare Republican victory for parental rights over party unity.

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