Rep. Pettersen on Proxy Voting for New Parents in Congress

Opposition to Blocking Proxy Voting

• ❌ Representative Pettersen rises in opposition to a rule that would prevent a bipartisan effort to allow remote voting for new parents in Congress.
• 🎯 She thanks Representative Luna for her commitment to enabling moms and dads to have a voice in Congress.
• 🗣️ Pettersen states that a large majority of House members support making Congress more accessible to young families and more reflective of the American people.

Speaker Johnson's Actions

• 🚫 Speaker Johnson is accused of taking historic steps to stifle voices, including blocking a discharge resolution before it could be voted on.
• 🇺🇸 The resolution had gathered the necessary 218 signatures to bring it to a floor vote.
• 🏛️ Pettersen criticizes the changes agreed upon by the speaker, stating they do not address the challenges faced by new parents and that Congress remains stuck in outdated practices from hundreds of years ago.

Personal Impact and Broader Support

• 👩‍🍼 Pettersen shares her personal experience of being prevented from doing her job as a woman and a new mother, countering calls for her resignation.
• 🤝 She acknowledges support from members on both sides of the aisle and expresses determination to continue the fight.
• 🌍 The effort is inspired by people across the country struggling to balance new parenthood with work environments that do not support their needs.
• ✈️ Sam is acknowledged for making multiple flights to advocate for reform and change hearts and minds regarding the need for proxy voting.