Paul Votes to Preserve the Elected House of Representatives

Washington, DC: Congressman Ron Paul yesterday cast a strong vote against a bizarre constitutional amendment that would have permitted unelected appointees to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. The proposal ostensibly was introduced to address concerns about whether Congress could function after a terrorist attack

I strongly oppose this constitutional amendment, because I believe an appointed Congress would become an unaccountable, tyrannical Congress,” Paul stated. “No individual has ever served in the U.S. House without having been elected. Even if a terrorist attack or other catastrophe killed many members of Congress, states are perfectly capable of holding elections quickly. The Founders clearly intended the U.S. House to serve as a truly representative body that is directly accountable to the people through frequent elections. The very term ‘appointed representative’ is an oxymoron.”

Congressman Paul cosponsored legislation that implements a plan for expedited federal elections throughout the fifty states if needed. More than 300 of his House colleagues passed the bill overwhelmingly in April.

Paul has led the effort in Washington to preserve an elected House. He met with top scholars, attorneys, and colleagues over the past twelve months who reject the idea of appointed representatives. He helped turn many members of Congress against the proposal through a series of public lectures, meetings, and published articles.