Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) erupted on Tuesday to compel a vote concerning measures to help new parents participate.
This endeavor achieved a significant win Tuesday as nine House Republicans aligned with all Democrats, opposing procedural rules that would have barred Luna from pursuing proxy voting initiatives.
The vote also interrupted critical legislative actions on the floor. It obstructed the planned vote on Republican objectives, limiting federal judges’ authority and requiring proof of citizenship for voting.
“I can’t believe that Congress was overtaken this week regarding Luna’s resolution, essentially commandeering members to permit work and votes from home,” Greene expressed in a post on social platform X following the vote.
“We have a vital bill that will be enacted to stop illegal entities from voting and prevent judges from obstructing President Trump’s agenda,” she further stated. “It’s unfortunate that self-serving politicians prioritize their interests over those of the American people.”
Greene also voiced concerns about the foundational proposal of proxy voting, asserting, “If you are unable to fulfill the duties you were elected to carry out, you should step aside and let someone else take over.”
“Being a member of the council is a privilege. You represent your district. There are various seasons. I’m a mother. I’ve raised three children. When my kids were small, I prioritized my family during that time.
“And if, for any reason, members of Congress find themselves unable to perform their responsibilities here, then the important work we were elected to do necessitates that someone else fills in for them, requiring them to resign,” she added.
Luna has gathered signatures from 218 lawmakers for her discharge petition. This enables a member who gives birth or adopts to vote for another member for a period of 12 weeks by approving a resolution from Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.).
Luna submitted a privileged claim early Tuesday to call a vote on the resolution. If leaders choose not to act, they must address House matters within two legislative days. This could extend into the following week if votes get canceled.
The GOP leadership may attempt to thwart this effort again before the deadline approaches, similar to their actions on Tuesday.
Luna expressed doubt that leadership could effectively eliminate this measure, though Johnson appeared to indicate a possibility.
