The Washington Post criticizes Senate Dress with ‘Fetterman Rule’.
Leading Newspaper Criticizes Senate’s New Dress Code
The Washington Post, one of the top Left-leaning newspapers in the U.S., strongly condemned the Senate’s recent decision to loosen its dress code. The editorial board of the Post expressed their disapproval of the policy, which was announced by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) on Sunday. According to the newspaper, the new dress code prioritizes the personal style of each senator over the traditional and formal attire that has long been associated with the esteemed chamber.
The Post’s editorial board wrote, “We vote nay,” in response to Schumer’s alteration of the Senate’s floor dress code. They argued that dressing formally is a way to show respect for the institution and the impact of its policies. Wearing a suit serves as a reminder for lawmakers to reflect on their responsibilities and the solemnity of the deliberative process.
The newspaper also cautioned that Schumer’s decision, seen by many as a favor to Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, could lead to senators wearing attention-grabbing outfits with political messages. They warned of a potential slippery slope where lawmakers wear T-shirts displaying their hometown sports teams or divisive partisan slogans in an attempt to gain social media attention and donations.
Schumer, who referred to the change as the ‘Fetterman Rule,’ announced it in a statement to Axios. He emphasized that senators have the freedom to choose their attire on the Senate floor, but he personally intends to continue wearing a suit.
One of the immediate beneficiaries of the new dress code appears to be Sen. Fetterman, known for his casual attire of hoodies and shorts. Previously restricted from wearing his preferred outfit on the Senate floor, Fetterman has mocked those who expressed concern about the change.
Fetterman says he “felt a tear in the time continuum” after presiding over the Senate without a suit
“The world didn’t spin off its axis” pic.twitter.com/It2PCqrizQ
— Igor Bobic (@igorbobic) September 20, 2023
The rule change has faced criticism from many Republican lawmakers, including Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT). In a social media post, Lee compared the Senate’s dress code to the uniforms worn by police officers, firefighters, judges, and pilots, arguing that abandoning the suit and tie is a matter of comfort over professionalism.
Police. Firefighters. Judges. Pilots. They all have uniforms. Ours is a suit and tie. We shouldn’t abandon it because it’s more comfortable to wear sweats. https://t.co/Ij9KOETPJk pic.twitter.com/9z8hP76cUX
— Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) September 18, 2023
What impact could senators wearing attention-grabbing outfits and displaying political messages have on the seriousness of the Senate’s legislative work?
Ampaign slogans, further eroding the professionalism of the Senate.
Furthermore, the editorial board of The Washington Post argued that the new dress code sends the wrong message to the American public. They expressed concern that loosening the dress code may give the impression that senators are not taking their jobs seriously or that they are more interested in their personal style than in the legislation they are supposed to be working on.
The newspaper pointed out that, historically, the Senate has upheld a certain level of decorum and formality. Senators have traditionally worn suits, ties, and dresses as a sign of respect for the institution and the democratic process. This formality has served as a reminder of the weight of their responsibilities and the seriousness with which they should approach their work.
The Post also highlighted that this decision seems to be driven by partisan favoritism, as it was reportedly made to accommodate Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat known for his more casual personal style. The newspaper emphasized the need for a nonpartisan approach to governing and called for decisions to be made based on what is best for the Senate and the American people as a whole, rather than individual lawmakers’ preferences.
In conclusion, The Washington Post strongly criticized the Senate’s newly relaxed dress code, arguing that it undermines the respect and professionalism of the institution. They cautioned against the potential for senators to wear attention-grabbing outfits and political messages, which could further erode the seriousness of the chamber. The newspaper also raised concerns about the message this decision sends to the American public and the perception that senators are prioritizing personal style over their legislative responsibilities. Ultimately, The Post urged for a nonpartisan approach to governance and decisions that prioritize the integrity and dignity of the Senate.
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