Members of the U.S. Congress voted on Wednesday to block a resolution that aimed to censure Representative Rashida Tlaib for her criticisms of Israel following the recent conflicts with Hamas. The censure resolution, introduced by Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, accused Tlaib of "leading an insurrection" during an anti-war protest at the Capitol. However, the resolution was blocked after 23 Republicans joined with Democrats to vote in favor of a procedural motion. The final vote tally was 222 to 186. The unexpected support for Tlaib from some Republicans may have been due to concerns about inaccuracies in Greene's characterization of the protest and her use of the term "insurrection." Pro-Israel Democrats also criticized the resolution for its sensationalized portrayal of Tlaib's role. The vote highlights the divide among Democrats regarding Israel, with some taking a pro-Palestinian stance and others being staunch allies of Israel. Later this week, the House is expected to vote on a $14.3 billion Israel aid package, which is likely to further highlight these divisions.
Sources:
- Editorial: "Marjorie Taylor Greene is pushing censure of Rashida Tlaib. It crosses a line." (Detroit Free Press)
- Rep. Becca Balint: "Why I introduced a resolution to censure Marjorie Taylor Greene" (NBC News)
- Email: "House shoots down censure resolution targeting Tlaib" (The Hill)