WASHINGTON - Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) issued the following statement after 21 House Members and four constituents filed a federal complaint to overturn the Democrat majority's partisan and unconstitutional power grab to limit the voices of individual Members of Congress, therefore silencing the voice of the American people.

"On April 9th, just six weeks ago, Speaker Pelosi assured us and the American public that any change to the House's voting methods 'won't happen unless we can do it in a bipartisan way.' Unfortunately, now the House is faced with this proxy voting process the Democratic majority forced through on a partisan basis. Not only does this proposal violate the constitution, but it takes away the voice of the American people. Our constituents elected us to represent their interests in Congress, not to hand over our votes on crucial legislation," said Ranking Member Davis. "Under this proxy voting scheme from the Democrats, potentially 20 Members could be voting for over 220 - Only 20 Members to control the fate of the House and the legislation presented within it."

"I, along with my colleagues, filed this complaint to abolish this unconstitutional scheme, because now more than ever during this pandemic, the People's House must support their needs, not silence their voices. As Ranking Member of the House Administration Committee, which oversees House operations, I am confident that we have solid procedures in place to allow for Members to perform our duties safely in-person. Instead of changing 230 years of precedent for this proxy voting scheme, we should be focused on moving the country forward, reopening the House, and continuing Congress' essential work for the American people."

Background:
Currently, 59 Democrats have signed away their right to vote on behalf of their constituents. You can view the list here.

Representing the plaintiffs are Chuck Cooper and Joel Alicea (lead counsel), and Elliott Berke (outside counsel). The suit is being filed in the D.C. Federal District Court to enjoin the use of proxy voting. An overview of the filing against H. RES 965 can be found here.

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