Manchin seeks support to reverse dress code relaxation: Report
Sen. Joe Manchin Proposes Reversal of Senate Dress Code Relaxation
According to a news report published on Thursday, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) has circulated a proposal to reverse Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s (D-NY) relaxation of the Senate dress code.
Schumer’s order, which took effect on Monday, allowed senators to wear whatever they want on the Senate floor, deviating from the traditional suits and ties for men and business attire for women. Critics argue that Schumer made this decision to appease Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), who is known for his casual attire, including hoodies and basketball shorts, while on Capitol Hill.
“I’ve signed it,” an unnamed senator, who explained it would “define what the dress code is,” told the Hill.
If approved, the proposal would revert the dress code back to its previous standards.
While critics acknowledge the need for standards regarding appropriate clothing on the Senate floor, they also recognize the importance of discussing what those standards should be.
“The senator in question from Pennsylvania is a personal friend,” Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) told The Briefing with Steve Scully, referring to Fetterman. “But I think we need to have standards when it comes to what we’re wearing on the floor of the Senate, and we’re in the process of discussing that right now as to what those standards will be.”
Fetterman, however, has pushed back against the criticism, emphasizing that there are more pressing issues to address in the Senate.
“The Republicans think I’m just going to burst in through the doors and start break dancing on the floor, you know, in shorts, and it really wasn’t a big issue,” Fetterman said. “It’s mystifying. I mean, there’s certain much more important kinds of issues we should be addressing. Instead of like, how if I dress like a bum.”
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) predicts that the topic will come to a floor vote, expressing his frustration with the idea of conforming the dress code to the lowest common denominator.
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What are the arguments made by opponents and supporters of Senator Manchin’s proposal
Is said to have allowed senators to dress more casually while conducting Senate business. This move sparked debate and mixed reactions among lawmakers, with some applauding the change as a step towards modernization, while others expressed concerns about the erosion of decorum within the esteemed chamber.
Senator Manchin, known for his centrist views and occasional break from party lines, has now taken a stance against this relaxation of the Senate dress code. In his proposal, he argues that the Senate must maintain its tradition of professionalism and dignity, and that dress codes are essential to upholding these values.
In his statement, Senator Manchin emphasized the significance of the Senate as an institution and the importance of adhering to its historical norms. He expressed concern that allowing senators to dress casually might lead to a lack of respect for the institution itself and diminish the seriousness with which debates are conducted.
Historically, the Senate has had a more formal dress code, with senators often seen wearing business attire such as suits or blazers. This traditional dress code was seen as a symbol of respect for the chamber and the gravity of the work conducted within its walls. It signified an understanding that senators were there to represent their constituents, engage in serious policy discussions, and make decisions that affect the lives of millions of Americans.
Opponents of Senator Manchin’s proposal argue that relaxing the Senate dress code would increase the accessibility and relatability of senators to the general public. They claim that the formal attire can create a barrier between elected officials and the people they serve, making them seem disconnected and out of touch with the realities faced by ordinary Americans. They believe that a more casual dress code might allow senators to better connect with their constituents and promote a greater sense of inclusivity.
However, supporters of Senator Manchin’s proposal argue that professionalism and decorum should take precedence over accessibility concerns. They believe that the role of senators is to uphold the highest standards of conduct and set an example for the rest of the country. They contend that the formal dress code is not merely a superficial tradition but a representation of the seriousness and dignity with which senators should approach their work.
The debate over the Senate dress code is not a new one, with past discussions and proposals to either relax or tighten the code. Each time, the issue brings to light broader questions about the role and image of the Senate, as well as the expectations and responsibilities of its members.
It remains to be seen how Senator Manchin’s proposal will fare in the Senate, given the divided opinions on this matter. Nevertheless, this discussion serves as a reminder of the important balance between tradition and progress, professionalism and accessibility, that lawmakers continually grapple with as they navigate the intricacies of democracy.
In the end, whether the Senate dress code is relaxed or reversed, the underlying concern for maintaining the integrity and purpose of the Senate should be at the forefront of these discussions. It is imperative that the Senate continues to be seen as an institution deserving of respect and reverence and that its members conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the gravity of their responsibilities.
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