A $19.1 billion disaster bill with bipartisan — and presidential — support was stalled in Congress again on Tuesday after Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) joined Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) as the only Republican lawmakers to object to the package, preventing its passing by unanimous consent.
The bill easily passed the Senate, but Massie objected on grounds that the House's attempt to push it through via unanimous consent — which would allow them to move forward with only a few members present due to the Memorial Day holiday — was "legislative malpractice." The bill would provide aid to Puerto Rico and fund rebuilding of infrastructure affected by natural disasters. Massie was commended by Roy and denounced by House Appropriations chair Rep. Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.). But their most vocal critic so far has been a lawmaker from their very own party. Sen. David Perdue (R-Ga.) tore into Massie for grandstanding.
This is yet another example of politicians putting their own self-interest ahead of the national interest.
It’s pathetic that some members have chosen this moment to grandstand & get into the national headlines. https://t.co/KodgZ1MhNL— David Perdue (@sendavidperdue) May 28, 2019
President @realDonaldTrump & an overwhelmingly bipartisan majority of the U.S. Senate & House have finally found consensus on a disaster relief package after 8 months of delays.
It’s time to quit the political games & get this disaster relief across the finish line. https://t.co/OWr1RqqmZd— David Perdue (@sendavidperdue) May 28, 2019
Perdue, who describes himself as a Washington outsider, also tweeted his support for Congressional term limits in response to the situation.
If we had term limits, you’d have a greater sense of urgency and less obstruction. In Washington, political self-interest comes before America’s national interest far too often.
— David Perdue (@Perduesenate) May 28, 2019
