Washington, DC—(ENEWSPF)—April 19, 2018
By: Rosemary Piser
Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Il) and her newborn daughter, Maile, made history today by voting on the Senate floor the day after Senate rules were changed allowing babies of its members into the Chamber. Senator Duckworth had encouraged the rule change since she wanted to resume voting while on maternity leave. Senate rules require that votes be cast in person. Senator Duckworth is the first Senator to give birth while holding office.
Duckworth noted on Politico’s “Women Rule” podcast in February when discussing the issue, “…you are not allowed to bring children onto the floor of the Senate at all. If I have to vote, and I’m breastfeeding my child, especially during my maternity leave period, what do I do? Leave her sitting outside? I can’t leave her with a staff member, that’s a conflict of interest, so am I allowed to vote? Can I not do my job? What are some of the requirements there?”
Senator Duckworth said the Senate rules change helps “bring the Senate into the 21st Century.”
Senator Duckworth shared a photo of the outfit she picked out for her daughter, who was born on April 9, to wear on the floor in case she was needed back at work.
I may have to vote today, so Maile’s outfit is prepped. I made sure she has a jacket so she doesn’t violate the Senate floor dress code (which requires blazers). I’m not sure what the policy is on duckling onesies, but I think we’re ready pic.twitter.com/SsNHEuSVnY
— Tammy Duckworth (@SenDuckworth) April 19, 2018
Senator Duckworth cradled baby Maile in her arms while Mom cast her vote on the confirmation of NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine.
Sources: CNN, CBS News, Duckworth.senate.gov
