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WASHINGTON — A maverick Republican said he would demand that a majority of House members vote in person on a $2-trillion economic relief package Friday, which would delay passage of the bill aimed at pumping money directly into Americans’ pockets while also helping hospitals, businesses, and state and local governments struggling with the surging COVID-19 pandemic.
The move by Rep. Thomas Massie, a libertarian conservative from Kentucky, could delay a vote until Saturday when enough members have returned to Washington. His insistence came despite withering attacks by President Trump on Twitter, calling for Massie to be ousted from the party.
House leaders had hoped to hold a simple voice vote, to protect members from potentially contracting the coronavirus by traveling and gathering in the Capitol. Based on Massie’s earlier threat that he would insist on a quorum — 216 members at the moment — they summoned lawmakers back. It was unclear if enough members were present Friday, because they were told to avoid coming to the House floor before a vote.
Massie confirmed his intention in a tweet.
The move by Rep. Thomas Massie, a libertarian conservative from Kentucky, could delay a vote until Saturday when enough members have returned to Washington. His insistence came despite withering attacks by President Trump on Twitter, calling for Massie to be ousted from the party.
House leaders had hoped to hold a simple voice vote, to protect members from potentially contracting the coronavirus by traveling and gathering in the Capitol. Based on Massie’s earlier threat that he would insist on a quorum — 216 members at the moment — they summoned lawmakers back. It was unclear if enough members were present Friday, because they were told to avoid coming to the House floor before a vote.
Massie confirmed his intention in a tweet.