House Speaker Mike Johnson faced yet another political setback this week as President Donald Trump publicly sided against him in a growing Republican debate over whether members of Congress on maternity leave should be allowed to vote remotely.
While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump gave his full support to the idea, which has been spearheaded by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL). Luna, who gave birth two years ago, has been pushing for a rule change that would allow lawmakers on parental leave to cast their votes remotely.
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“You’re having a baby, you should be able to call in and vote,” Trump said Thursday, according to The Associated Press’ White House correspondent Seung Min Kim. “I’m in favor of that.”
Trump’s endorsement marks a clear break from Speaker Johnson, who has been adamantly opposed to proxy voting since taking over House leadership. His refusal to entertain Luna’s proposal created tension within the GOP ranks, culminating in his decision to cancel all floor votes for the remainder of the week.
CNBC congressional correspondent Emily Wilkins highlighted the political implications of Trump’s stance, noting on X (formerly Twitter): “Woah. Given how hard Johnson has pushed to not allow proxy voting, Trump splitting with Johnson is notable.”
Luna’s proposal has sparked internal debate within the Republican Party, which has historically been skeptical of remote voting policies. Proxy voting was temporarily allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic but was eliminated under Johnson’s leadership, who has argued that in-person participation is essential to the legislative process.
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However, Luna’s push for parental accommodations has gained support, particularly from newer members who see the need for more modern workplace policies in Congress. Trump’s backing now puts added pressure on Johnson and other House GOP leaders to reconsider their position.
The rift also exposes deeper divides within the party, especially as it tries to navigate its stance on family values and modern workplace flexibility. Johnson’s move to cancel votes rather than confront the issue head-on only intensified criticism from both within and outside his party.
As Trump throws his weight behind Luna’s effort, Johnson may soon find himself further isolated, raising questions about how long he can hold off reforms that are increasingly seen as inevitable.
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