Speaker Johnson, Luna finalize proxy voting deal amid GOP tensions

House Speaker Mike Johnson has reached a compromise with Representative Anna Paulina Luna to allow proxy voting for new parents, addressing a significant standoff that had paralyzed the House for nearly a week. The agreement formalizes a procedure known as 'live/dead pairing,' enabling absent lawmakers to pair their votes with opposing votes from present members, thereby canceling out their absence. This change aims to support new parents in Congress during critical family times. The decision follows Luna's extensive efforts, including a discharge petition that garnered support from over 200 Democrats and some Republicans, highlighting the urgency of the issue. Despite opposition from hard-line Republicans, this move may alleviate some internal GOP tensions as they strive for cohesion within their narrow majority. Johnson's office has confirmed the deal, which reflects a growing acknowledgment of the need for family-friendly policies in the legislative process.