Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) recently presided over the U.S. Senate wearing a short-sleeve shirt, no tie, and shorts, a decision coming shortly after the enforcement of the chamber’s dress code was halted. This attire choice was in line with the newly relaxed rules initiated by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, which allow senators to choose their wardrobe while on the Senate floor.
- Change in Dress Code: The enforcement of the traditional dress code has been relaxed, a move that has been both criticized and joked about by members from both parties.
- Fetterman’s Stance: Despite the uproar, Fetterman defended his choice, stating that the world did not “spin off its axis” due to his attire.
- Reactions: The reactions have been mixed, with some senators opposing the change, fearing it disrespects the institution and the American families they represent.
The change, which affects senators but not staff members, was directed by Schumer who instructed the Senate’s sergeant-at-arms to cease the enforcement of the informal rules that dictated members to adorn business attire while on the Senate floor. Schumer affirmed his personal choice to continue wearing a suit despite the relaxed rules.
Fetterman, known for often wearing hoodies and gym shorts, has previously circumvented the dress code by voting from the doorway of the Democratic cloakroom or a side entrance. This habit led to the dubbing of the change as “The Fetterman Rule.” The senator has utilized social media to advertise clothing that mocks his critics and has promised to wear a suit if certain conditions met in a statement on the social media platform X.
| Facts of the News |
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| The enforcement of the Senate’s dress code has been relaxed, allowing senators to choose their attire on the floor. |
| Senator Fetterman presided over the Senate in a short-sleeve shirt, no tie, and shorts, defending his choice amidst mixed reactions. |
| The change has sparked both criticism and jokes, with some senators demanding a reversal of the “misguided” rules change. |
What led to the change in the Senate’s dress code?
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer directed the Senate’s sergeant-at-arms to stop enforcing the informal rules that required senators to wear business attire on the Senate floor, a decision that has received a mixed response from other senators.
How has Senator Fetterman responded to the criticisms?
Senator Fetterman has defended his attire choice, stating that his attire did not cause any significant issues. He has also used social media to mock his critics and advertise clothing that reflects his stance on the relaxed dress code.
What have other senators said about the change?
While some senators have embraced the change, others have criticized it, fearing it disrespects the institution and the American families they represent. Some senators have demanded a reversal of the rules change, emphasizing the need to maintain the sanctity of the Senate floor.
Source: Daily Wire