House Democrats are weighing the idea of temporarily allowing members to vote by proxy during the coronavirus pandemic — a massive departure from the Constitution.
House Rules Committee Chairman Jim McGovern suggested the idea during a caucus call Thursday, saying it would allow certain colleagues who are in the chamber to vote on behalf of other members who are unable to be there in person.
McGovern pointed out that the suggestion is more secure than electronic voting that could be open to hacking or interference. He added, "And because it doesn't rely on some new technology being stood up and vigorously tested, it could give Members a say on important legislation much more quickly."
Bloomberg reports that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office isn't against the idea. But she says that the full House would need to approve a resolution to vote by proxy. The House isn't scheduled to be back in session until May 4.
In the past, like after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the idea of voting by proxy was struck down by Congress.
