The Importance of Upholding Senate Tradition

The Letter to Senator Schumer

Nearly every Senate Republican signed a letter urging Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to continue enforcing the Senate’s longstanding dress code. The senators emphasized the significance of the Senate floor as a place of honor and tradition where the business of the American people takes place. They expressed their disappointment and disapproval of the recent decision to abandon the dress code, stating that allowing casual clothing would disrespect the institution and the American families they represent.

Schumer’s Decision

Schumer’s move to no longer enforce the dress code on the chamber floor was seen as a reflection of Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman’s preference for wearing shorts and a hoodie. However, the senators believe that the sanctity of the Senate floor must be protected at all costs.

Reversing the Decision

The letter, signed by all Senate Republicans except three members, urged Schumer to immediately reverse his decision. They highlighted that the change in the dress code goes against the Senate’s longstanding customs and traditions and undermines the importance of the institution they serve.

The Historical Perspective

While there are 44 standing rules of the Senate, none specifically establish a formal dress code. However, the Senate has traditionally followed a custom of business attire, including men wearing a coat and tie and women wearing dresses or pantsuits with their shoulders covered. In the past, members not adhering to this attire have voted from the chamber’s threshold or from their party’s cloakroom.

A Shift in Workforce Culture

Schumer’s decision reflects a larger national trend toward more casual clothing in the workforce. Over the years, there have been objections to Congress’ formalities, leading to changes in attire rules. In 2017, then-House Speaker Paul Ryan relaxed rules on attire after objections were raised by congresswomen regarding the prohibition on displaying bare arms. In 2019, the Senate attire for women was relaxed following a push by then-Senate Rules Committee Chairman Amy Klobuchar to allow sleeveless dresses.

Voices of Opposition

Several Senate Republicans have voiced opposition to the recent change in the dress code. Sen. Chuck Grassley, who has been serving since 1980, expressed his dissatisfaction and called the suggestion unprecedented. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine made a lighthearted comment about wearing a bikini on the Senate floor, highlighting the absence of a dress code. However, Sen. Tina Smith defended Fetterman’s attire and criticized Republicans for focusing on dress code rather than more pressing issues.

Fetterman’s Response

Fetterman, who appreciated the new flexibility in his attire, found the GOP’s criticism “mystifying.” He mocked the objections from Republican senators, suggesting that he might become a folk hero if he engaged in controversial activities. Despite the criticism, Fetterman believes that there are more important issues to address.

This story has been updated with additional information.

Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-09-20 16:39:00

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