In a recent interview, Congresswoman Nancy Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, made it clear that she opposes allowing new mothers in Congress to vote via proxy. This issue has stirred significant debate and has stymied the House’s proceedings this week.
Mace, expressing her viewpoint, stated, “As a woman and as a mom, I don’t support any exceptions for proxy voting.” She believes that members of Congress should fulfill their duties by physically showing up to work. “We have a job. We have a constitutional duty to show up here and work, and we should,” she emphasized.
The proposed legislation, co-sponsored by Republican Anna Paulina Luna from Florida and Democrat Brittany Pettersen from Colorado, suggests that new parents be permitted to vote by proxy for up to 12 weeks while caring for their infants. This proposal has divided the Republican Party, with figures like former President Donald Trump supporting the idea, while Speaker of the House Mike Johnson argues that proxy voting is “unconstitutional.”
Despite there being enough backing — with 218 lawmakers in favor — Mace stood firm in her opposition, declaring, “I’m an absolute no on any and all proxy voting. It’s wrong.”
Mace believes that members of Congress should earn their positions and responsibilities based on their capabilities, not on special allowances. “I want to make it on my own merit,” she stated, reinforcing her stance that no exceptions should be made for anyone.
Additionally, Mace voiced her confidence in the leadership of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding military standards. She advocated for merit-based standards, arguing that consistency and fairness in military evaluations are vital for national security. “It’s good for our country. It’s good for those who are willing to risk their lives for their fellow countrymen,” she said, showcasing her commitment to a strong military.
Concluding her thoughts on recruitment in the military, Mace expressed optimism for the future, suggesting that under the right leadership, recruitment numbers could rise significantly, urging that America’s adversaries should take note.
