Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) remarked that the inclement weather in Washington, D.C., is contributing to the challenges House Republicans are facing as they work to expedite “big and beautiful bills” this week.
The House is set to convene for a procedural vote at 9 a.m. EDT on Wednesday regarding GOP tax cuts and spending legislation.
However, several lawmakers took to social media to report flight delays or cancellations, raising concerns about attendance for the initial vote. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area until 9 p.m.
Johnson can only afford to lose three Republicans, given the slim margins that could shift based on attendance, absenteeism, and the unity of Democratic opposition.
“We’re keeping a close eye on the weather, and it’s something we need to be aware of,” Johnson told reporters.
When asked about the likelihood of full attendance for the procedural vote, he replied, “I can’t say for sure yet.”
“There are quite a few delays happening right now, which is a factor,” he added.
At least four members of the House have stated they won’t be returning to D.C. due to the weather. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) mentioned that two of her flights to the Capitol were cancelled and expressed her determination to find an alternate way to reach D.C. to vote on the significant bill. Meanwhile, Rep. Russell Fry (R-S.C.) indicated he was driving back, emphasizing the urgency of being present for the party’s key legislation.
“I’m actually heading to D.C. now to make sure I can vote for the ‘big beautiful bill,’ but flights have been cancelled all along the East Coast,” Fry said in a video on social media. “I can’t afford to get stuck in Myrtle Beach during this historic moment. I’m in my car now, driving to D.C. by 9 a.m.”
“This moment is too crucial to waste time at the airport. We need to support President Trump’s agenda and vote on this week’s ‘big, beautiful bill.’ So, I’m also doing a ‘big, beautiful road trip.’ It should be good, and I’ll see you tonight in Washington, D.C.,” he added.
On the Democratic side, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) announced he is also driving after his flight got cancelled. Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) reported a similar situation with his flight and was en route to Chicago to catch an early flight back to D.C. Both expressed their intent to return to vote against the GOP initiatives.
“I’m currently at the Madison airport, hoping to drive to Chicago to catch one of the first flights tomorrow at 6 a.m. My flight to D.C. was just cancelled thanks to the thunderstorm. Just another day in the glamorous life of Congress,” he quipped.
It remains uncertain how many more Republicans and Democrats are impacted by the adverse weather conditions.
Even with full attendance, Johnson was already bracing for a tough vote on procedural rules. A small faction of hardline House conservatives has threatened to oppose the procedural vote due to their disagreement with certain provisions of the bill.
This could stall legislative business on the House floor.
