House Budget Vote Highlights Attendance Issues, Renewed Proxy Push

House Democrats demonstrated the importance of attendance during a contentious budget vote, with leadership urging all members to return to the chamber. Notably, Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-CO) returned with her newborn son to vote against the resolution, emphasizing the challenges she faced in making the trip. Despite their efforts, including rallying members who had been absent for health reasons, Democrats were ultimately unsuccessful in blocking the Republican-backed budget plan, which passed by a narrow margin. The vote highlighted ongoing discussions about proxy voting for new parents and other members unable to attend due to personal circumstances. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries had previously stressed the need for maximum attendance to ensure a unified Democratic stance against the GOP's fiscal proposals. This situation reflects the tight dynamics in the House, where every vote counts amidst narrow majorities.