The House Vote

Members Arrive on the Hill

Despite Rep. Massie's efforts, the stimulus bill just passed by voice vote.  (It takes one-fifth of those present to force a recorded vote.)

Melanie Zanona at Politico:

House lawmakers scrambled to get back to Washington for today’s vote on the $2 trillion economic rescue passage, even though leadership was hoping to pass it by a simple voice vote and was desperate to protect members from being potentially exposed to coronavirus. But there are concerns that a single member — namely, liberterian Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) — may force a roll call vote or request a quorum. And if that happens, Speaker Nancy Pelosi is insisting that an in-person vote will happen Friday instead of over the weekend — a directive that was delivered during a 6 p.m. conference call last night.

Leaders in both parties encouraged members to return to D.C. for the vote if they are willing and able, while the majority whip asked offices to let them know ASAP if their bosses were planning on making the trip. But many lawmakers are furious: they don’t want to be recorded as absent on what is likely to be the biggest and most historic piece of legislation that they will ever vote on. Yet the short notice, canceled or limited flights and states with different safety guidelines have created a whole lot of headaches — and anger — among members.

Retiring Republican Pete King of suburban NY:

Heading to Washington to vote on pandemic legislation. Because of one Member of Congress refusing to allow emergency action entire Congress must be called back to vote in House. Risk of infection and risk of legislation being delayed. Disgraceful. Irresponsible.

— Rep. Pete King (@RepPeteKing) March 27, 2020

A former House GOP spokesperson:

It is quite the statement of his character that Thomas Massie is legitimately threatening the health of his colleagues, many in their 60s or 70s even 80s, for a stunt on a bill he knows is going to pass. I hope no one forgets what he’s done here.

— Brendan Buck (@BrendanBuck) March 27, 2020

The House will be voting under unusual social-distancing protocols.  Click here for the document.