Senator Tammy Duckworth makes history by bringing her baby to work

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Senator Tammy Duckworth makes history by bringing her baby to work

By Susan Devaney

7 years ago

Senator Tammy Duckworth makes history as she casts her vote on the Senate floor with her 10-day old daughter. 

Senator Tammy Duckworth has long voiced her grievance against the ban of bringing children onto the Senate floor during its voting period.

And yesterday the Illinois Democrat won her fight by making history as she brought her 10-day old daughter, Maile Pearl Bowlsbey, onto the Senate floor to cast her vote.

Taking to Twitter, Duckworth shared her outfit choice for her newborn daughter.

“I made sure she has a jacket so she doesn’t violate the Senate floor dress code (which requires blazers),” she joked.

“I’m not sure what the policy is on duckling onesies, but I think we’re ready.”

She then cast her vote opposing President Donald Trump’s selection to lead NASA. (The Senate confirmed Jim Bridenstine as the agency’s new administrator.)

The change comes after Duckworth, an Iraq War veteran, became the first sitting senator to give birth while in office.

After being applauded by her fellow senators, Duckworth told reporters it felt “amazing” to be able to cast her vote and bring her newborn. “And it’s about time,” she said. 

Senate rules committee chairman Roy Blunt said being a parent was a difficult job and the Senate floor should not make it harder for parents.

“I’m glad we were able to get this done to address the needs of parents in the Senate,” he told BBC News.

“I congratulate Sen Duckworth and her family, and look forward to meeting her daughter.”

The change comes after Duckworth, an Iraq War veteran, became the first sitting senator to give birth while in office. Surprisingly, the USA is the only country in the developed world that doesn’t offer paid parental leave.

Is there anything Duckworth can’t do? 

Images: Getty / Twitter 

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