Unanimous Decision by US Senate Restores Dress Code Policy

The US Senate has voted in favor of implementing a dress code for lawmakers, rejecting a proposal to allow casual clothing in the chamber. Last week, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer ended the informal rule that required senators to wear business attire on the floor. This change was seen as an accommodation for Democratic Senator John Fetterman, which angered Republicans. A resolution was passed by members from both parties, establishing a dress code that mandates lawmakers to wear "business attire" in the chamber. However, the resolution only specified business attire for men, leaving out details such as sleeve length, neckline height, footwear, and hats for women. Any changes to the code or its enforcement will now require a chamber vote. Senator Joe Manchin, the Democratic author of the resolution, remarked that many lawmakers were unaware that the dress code was not formally written down until recently when Schumer halted its enforcement. Mitt Romney, the Republican author of the resolution, stated that adhering to an official dress code allows senators to demonstrate their respect for the government institution. The imposition of the dress code comes amidst political battles that threaten a government shutdown. Republicans and Democrats expressed their ability to work together on this issue despite more pressing matters at hand. Senators traditionally wear more casual attire outside the chamber before changing into business attire upon entry. Schumer's decision to relax the dress code drew criticism from Republican opponents on social media who claimed it was undermining decorum in the Senate. Fetterman responded to the resolution by sharing a photo of actor Kevin James in casual attire on a social media platform.