Andy Biggs (TX), Thomas Massie (KY), Andy Harris (MO), Lance Goodman (TX), Matt Gaetz (FL), Marjorie Taylor-Greene (GA), Louie Gohmert (TX), Michael Cloud (TX), Andrew Clyde (GA), Greg Steube (FL), Bob Good (VA), John Rose (TN)
We've recently seen congressional Republicans return to the automatic "NO" votes that were standard practice during the Obama years. From the certification of the election of Joe Biden to the American Rescue Plan, members of the GQP have voted against the Democrats religiously and relentlessly. But you would think voting to honor the courage of the Capitol Police officers who stood between them and rioting, murderous domestic terrorists would be a no-brainer, right? Not so fast.
On Wednesday, the House voted 413-12 to award three Congressional Gold Medals to the Capitol Police, the D.C. police and the Smithsonian Institution in recognition of those who protected the U.S. Capitol when it was attacked by a pro-Trump mob on Jan. 6. 12 Republicans could not see their way to honor the men and women who, quite possibly, saved their lives during the deadly riot fomented by the former President and others. Those Republicans are listed above.
Republicans declare themselves to be the party of "Law & Order". Republicans claim to love America more than Democrats do. Republicans cry out that "Blue Lives Matter". But given the chance to prove it just a little by casting a simple yes vote to acknowledge the heroism displayed just over two months ago, 12 Republicans chose to once again display their hypocrisy, and their fecklessness.
No money was asked for. There was no political victory to be gained. This was nothing more than a branch of Congress acknowledging it's gratitude to the men and women who kept them safe and away from danger on a frightening and terrible day. And yet 12 members said, "NO". They called it a "stunt". They parsed the language. They behaved like children in the throes of a tantrum, holding their breath and stomping their feet. They have demonstrated, once again, they have no place serving in the Congress of the United States.
Next year, voters in the districts represented by the 12 will be asked to send them back to Congress. It is likely most will do just that. The voters will validate the shameful actions we witnessed today. Their continued devotion to the Cult of Trump will overshadow any love of country they may once have possessed. The 12 will be back in their seats, their only goal being to cast "NO" votes for two more years. And my country will be further diminished by their presence.