GOP Divided as Proxy Voting Debate Intensifies in House

A significant conflict has arisen within the House Republican caucus over a proposal by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna to allow new parents to vote by proxy, a measure opposed by Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP leaders. In a recent vote, Luna's effort to advance the resolution was supported by nine Republicans but ultimately failed, with Johnson labeling it unconstitutional and warning of potential slippery slopes for future proxy voting. Luna, who recently left the House Freedom Caucus, criticized the leadership's tactics as a betrayal and accused them of using strong-arm methods to suppress her proposal. The House Rules Committee has taken unprecedented steps to block her discharge petition, further escalating tensions among party members. With a slim majority, Johnson faces pressure to maintain party unity while navigating this contentious issue. The proposal has garnered bipartisan support, indicating a divide within the Republican ranks regarding family-centered legislation.