In a recent decision that has stirred controversy in conservative circles, the U.S. Senate announced the abandonment of its dress code requirements. The move has prompted criticism from both online pundits and Republican members of Congress, who contend that this policy shift was primarily orchestrated to accommodate Democratic Senator John Fetterman.
According to Fox News Digital, on Sunday the Senate will no longer enforce a dress code for senators themselves. Senators will now have the liberty to wear attire of their choosing. However, it’s worth noting that individuals entering the chamber will still be expected to adhere to the traditional dress code, which mandates coats and ties for men and business attire for women.
Conservatives were quick to voice their displeasure on social media platforms, particularly X (formerly known as Twitter), where they expressed their concerns over Senator Fetterman’s sartorial choices. Fetterman, known for frequently donning gym shorts and hoodies while in the Senate building, had previously circumvented the legislative body’s dress code rules by casting votes from the doorway of the Democrat cloakroom or the side entrance, ensuring that his vote was recorded before making a swift exit.
Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene took to X, stating, “The Senate no longer enforcing a dress code for Senators to appease Fetterman is disgraceful. Dress code is one of society’s standards that set etiquette and respect for our institutions. Stop lowering the bar!”
The Senate no longer enforcing a dress code for Senators to appease Fetterman is disgraceful.
Dress code is one of society’s standards that set etiquette and respect for our institutions.
Stop lowering the bar!
— Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene🇺🇸 (@RepMTG) September 17, 2023
GOP Congressman Ryan Zinke echoed this sentiment, tweeting, “If my interns can put on a suit, so can a U.S. Senator.”
Trump senior adviser Stephen Miller also voiced his criticism on X, questioning the Senate’s decision, “So let me get this straight. The entire Senate is jettisoning its storied history and debasing itself before the world to accommodate the slovenliness of one man, John Fetterman? Will a single Senator object to this humiliation?”
Fox News contributor Joe Concha weighed in on the matter as well, stating that Fetterman’d legacy wont go down in history for saving his state but5 dressing like a sophomore in “summer school.”
In response to Congresswoman Greene’s tweet, Senator Fetterman took a swipe at House Republicans, saying, “Thankfully, the nation’s lower chamber lives by a higher code of conduct: displaying ding-a-ling pics in public hearings.”
The decision to relax the Senate’s dress code has clearly ignited a fiery debate within conservative circles, with critics arguing that it symbolizes a disregard for tradition and decorum in the hallowed halls of Congress.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this change will impact the Senate’s image and conduct in the eyes of the American public.
