Jeffries open to allowing lawmakers to wear sneakers in speaker’s lobby
House minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed openness too changing rules to allow sneakers in the speaker’s lobby if Democrats take control of the house and he becomes speaker, though he emphasized focusing on the upcoming November elections first. Currently, the lobby enforces strict attire rules, forbidding sneakers, and restricting media from taking photos or videos inside.The trend of wearing sneakers on Capitol Hill has grown, even leading to the formation of the Sneaker Caucus in 2023, chaired by Reps. Jared Moskowitz and Wesley Hunt. Moskowitz highlighted that sneakers contribute to individual expression and diversity among members and staff, helping to break down barriers within the chamber.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) said he would consider a rule change to allow sneakers in the speaker’s lobby if Democrats take the House in November and he is elected speaker.
“That is a good question,” Jeffries responded when asked whether he would change the rules to allow sneakers. “I do lean in that direction, but these are all issues for us to resolve after the fact. We’re going to remain focused on November 3.”
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The speaker’s lobby, located just off the House floor, adheres to strict rules. It’s a place where members can mingle, take phone calls, or talk to the press. Only certain staff are allowed in the room, and those allowed in are required to wear “appropriate professional attire,” including no sneakers. Men must wear a jacket and a tie.
Reporters are also barred from taking photos and videos while in the lobby.
Sneakers on Capitol Hill have grown in popularity in recent years, leading to the creation of the Sneaker Caucus in 2023. The caucus is chaired by Reps. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) and Wesley Hunt (R-TX).
HOUSE MEMBERS AND STAFFERS SPORT SNEAKERS AS THEY HEAD FOR RECESS
Moskowitz told the Washington Examiner last year that sneakers allow staffers and lawmakers to be “individualized,” while fostering a sense of diversity. The Florida Democrat said that, at any point in time, there are “100 members on the floor wearing sneakers on both sides of the aisle.”
“The diversity in the room breaks down barriers,” Moskowitz said.
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