Jim Jordan is calling for a major House response to Maxine Waters’ continued absence from Congress, arguing that the California Democrat should not be allowed to keep participating in votes through a proxy while remaining away from the Capitol.
The controversy centers on Waters’ alleged months-long absence from the House floor. Despite not appearing in person, her proxy identification has reportedly continued to be used to cast votes.
Jordan believes the arrangement raises serious questions about accountability and the rules governing congressional participation.
His argument is straightforward: if a member of Congress cannot attend the House and perform the responsibilities of the office, there needs to be a serious discussion about whether that person should continue serving. He is now calling on the entire House to consider removing Waters.
That is a significant demand, particularly given how long the California Democrat has been a familiar presence in Washington. Jordan also believes the issue goes beyond Waters herself. He argues that lawmakers who knowingly support her proxy voting arrangement should share responsibility for allowing it to continue.
In his view, congressional rules cannot simply become optional whenever a member is unavailable.
The situation has also raised questions about Waters’ personal circumstances. Jordan reportedly suggested that her extended absence could be connected to a health issue that has prevented her from carrying out her normal duties. However, the nature of any such issue has not been established, and Waters’ private medical information should not be assumed.
That uncertainty is one reason Jordan says the House needs a clear explanation of the situation. The Ohio Republican wants lawmakers to determine whether the proxy arrangement has been used in accordance with House rules and whether Waters has been fulfilling the responsibilities expected of an elected representative.
The issue could become politically uncomfortable for Democrats, especially if members are forced to explain why they continued accepting proxy votes while Waters remained absent.
Jordan’s position is that congressional representation requires more than having a name on the voting board. Members are elected to participate, debate legislation, answer questions, and represent the people who sent them to Washington.
If those responsibilities cannot be performed, he believes the House should take action.
Waters has spent decades in Congress and remains a prominent Democratic figure. But Jordan is making it clear that seniority should not provide protection from accountability. Whether the House leadership takes up his demand remains to be seen.
For now, Jordan wants a straightforward answer: how can a member remain absent for months while continuing to influence votes through a proxy? And he believes the entire House has a responsibility to address it.