House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed surprise at Texas Rep. Wesley Hunt’s absence during a crucial vote, highlighting the stakes for Republicans working within a slender majority. Hunt, amidst a competitive three-way Senate primary, missed a vote essential to advance appropriations bills, including one for the Department of Homeland Security. While the absence did not affect the outcome—Republicans managed to advance the bills—Johnson noted that Hunt’s frequent absences are concerning as they work through their legislative agenda.
“I expected him to be here, so this was a surprise to me,” Johnson said, reflecting the frustration of GOP leadership. With a mere one-vote margin in the House, any absence is felt acutely. Hunt has been away for 46 of the last 49 roll call votes, according to data from GovTrack, which points to a staggering 94 percent absentee rate during that period.
The close vote to advance four government funding bills passed by just one vote, 214-213. This dramatic margin underscores the challenges Republicans face in maintaining unity and presence among their ranks. Notably, the vote saw other members, including Rep. Steve Womack, who had just lost his wife, and Rep. Jim Baird, recovering from a car accident, still present to fulfill their duties, contrasting sharply with Hunt’s absence.
Since his swearing-in in January 2023, Hunt has missed 327 out of 1,641 roll call votes, translating to a 20 percent absence rate. This figure starkly contrasts with the median lawmaker’s lifetime absence rate of approximately 2 percent. Such statistics suggest that Hunt’s participation—or lack thereof—has drawn significant scrutiny.
In response to Hunt’s absence, a representative claimed he would return in time to cast a vote that afternoon. The spokesperson stated, “The Speaker of the House contacted Congressman Hunt approximately 30 minutes ago to inform him that his vote is needed this afternoon.” This assertion highlights the urgency as the GOP grapples with its narrow majority.
Party leaders have been vocal about the necessity of full attendance, especially amid a critical period with low margins. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise reiterated the importance of commitment, stating, “We have made it very clear to our members… that you have a job to do.” He maintained that showing up for votes is crucial, especially for those vying for statewide office.
Hunt, in a local interview, downplayed concerns regarding his attendance, asserting that primary voters care more about tangible issues than his voting record. He mentioned, “Last I checked, the people of Texas don’t necessarily care about your attendance record,” emphasizing that voters prioritize support for gun control, backing Trump’s agenda, and border security over attendance at votes.
However, critics from within the Republican Party are not shy about airing their grievances. The campaign spokesman for Sen. John Cornyn condemned Hunt’s frequent absences, stating, “Wesley Hunt is refusing to fight for Trump’s agenda by putting his selfish political ambitions before his responsibilities.” This criticism illustrates the divisions among candidates and highlights the consequences of prioritizing personal ambitions over party obligations.
Overall, Hunt’s trajectory in the upcoming primary raises questions about the balance between campaigning and fulfilling legislative duties. As he navigates the challenges of his Senate bid, his attendance in Congress remains under scrutiny, likely influencing both his campaign and the broader Republican strategy in a tightly contested political landscape.
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