Source: Fox News
Summary
Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, and Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Wash., faced backlash from fellow Democrats after voting with Republicans to pass a procedural rule, allowing the House to debate several bills. The vote was critical to avoid a government shutdown and allowed for the consideration of the SAVE America Act and a resolution against socialism. Democratic leaders, including Hakeem Jeffries, condemned the move as a breach of trust. Golden defended his decision, citing the need to protect Maine’s lobster industry, while Gluesenkamp Perez’s actions raised questions about her loyalty to the party.
Our Reading
As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Golden and Gluesenkamp Perez voted with Republicans.
Leaders were not informed beforehand.
Jeffries issued a joint statement with Clark and Aguilar.
The rule vote was a rare moment of bipartisan cooperation.
Author: Evan Null
Rep. Jared Golden and Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez
Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, may retire from Congress next year with a reputation that is anything but gilded among his fellow Democrats. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Wash., is seeking reelection in a competitive district. But some of her colleagues may consider “MGP” to be notorious if she returns to Capitol Hill in January.
The House of Representatives and the Procedural Vote
The House of Representatives is now out — again — until Sept. 14. That follows a six-week sabbatical over the summer. But were it not for Golden and Gluesenkamp Perez, House Republican leaders may have had no other choice but to send members home early a few days ago. The duo committed something close to a parliamentary heresy, handing the GOP the necessary votes on a procedural matter to unlock the floor for the majority.
Democratic Backlash and Leadership Response
Republicans lacked the votes to do it on their own – had Golden and Gluesenkamp not intervened. However, the most schismatic betrayal was that neither one briefed Democratic leaders on what they planned to do. Congressional leaders from both sides are never pleased with members who stray from the party line. Especially on a procedural vote, which is almost always the responsibility of the majority to pass.
Golden’s Defense and Gluesenkamp Perez’s Actions
Golden said he voted with Republicans so the House could pass the bill safeguarding Maine’s lobster industry. “It’s about protecting the working class communities those men and women support.” Gluesenkamp Perez appeared at an unrelated meeting of the Rules Committee the next day. During her testimony, Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., the top Democrat on the panel, swiveled around in his chair and sat with his back to his fellow Democrat.
Jeffries’ Statement and the Future of Democratic Unity
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Clark and House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., issued a rare, joint condemnation of the dissenting duo. They characterized the revolt “a significant breach of trust,” adding it “necessitates a serious response.” Jeffries hopes to turn a corner with the renegades. He spoke briefly with Golden. But a deeper conversation with Gluesenkamp Perez. The Leader was cryptic when pressed why he even had to issue an admonition.
