In today’s fast-paced world, it seems modern-day parents want it all without making any real sacrifices. Take, for example, the representatives who brought business to a halt in the House of Representatives, all over a push to allow remote voting for new parents. These individuals, who might think they’re making a noble stand, actually show a concerning lack of understanding about what it means to serve the people. One representative even made a dramatic point of holding her newborn while delivering her speech, suggesting that being a parent should somehow exempt them from their duties in Congress.
This call for remote voting is not about expanding rights or supporting young families; it’s about dodging responsibilities. Congress, by definition, is a place for debate and decision-making in person, not through a screen. It’s disheartening to see elected officials trying to rewrite the rulebook just because it doesn’t fit into their personal lives anymore. The Constitution set out the requirement for in-person voting for a reason. Zoom calls cannot replace the dynamic and immediate interactions that occur when lawmakers meet face to face.
Quite amusingly, these representatives argue they can’t do their jobs adequately while tending to their newborns, as if being elected to Congress isn’t a privilege. They forget that millions of American parents balance demanding jobs and family daily without needing special treatment. It appears that some Congresspeople are more interested in changing the rules as per their convenience than fulfilling the duties they signed up for, including being present at the Capitol.
The reality that Congress only works about nine or ten days a month seems contested or not as straightforward as it appears, yet it remains a talking point. There are countless hard-working parents who manage their time effectively, and Congresspeople should be no exception. If anything, they should be held to an even higher standard as they’ve chosen to step into one of the most critical roles this nation offers.
Ultimately, bending and twisting tradition to suit one’s personal life doesn’t bode well for anyone. Congress should stand firm in its time-honored traditions and not dilute them with leniencies that undermine the very nature of governance. Perhaps, representatives need to remember that their primary commitment is to their constituents—not to creating a more convenient work schedule. If the heavy burden of congressional duty proves too much while raising a family, maybe it’s time to reconsider priorities rather than policies.
