Members Flout House Rules in Pope Francis Address
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The unofficial leader out of the gate was Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., who snapped a pic as members prepared to welcome the pontiff.
In the House Chamber awaiting @Pontifex‘s address to Congress #PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/YZIODDYNWh
— Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) September 24, 2015
#PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/iO7xHO0xD6 — Cong. Tim Huelskamp (@CongHuelskamp) September 24, 2015
Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada was the first Democrat to tweet an image of the pope.
My view for the Pope's speech to Congress. Welcome to the Capitol @Pontifex #PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/zM115aoOKD
— Dina Titus (@repdinatitus) September 24, 2015
And a short time later, Rep. Karen Bass, D-Calif., and Rep. Tom Graves, R-Ga., joined the party.
My view on the House Floor listening to @Pontifex's speech. Wise words from Pope Francis. #PopeinDC. pic.twitter.com/m8dFs3oFN4 — Congressmember Bass (@RepKarenBass) September 24, 2015
Though cellphones have become commonplace on the House floor, photography is strictly prohibited.Pope Francis sharing his message to the joint meeting of Congress #InGodWeTrust #PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/uoRcLZ3pW8
— Tom Graves (@RepTomGraves) September 24, 2015
“A person on the floor of the House may not smoke or use a mobile electronic device that impairs decorum,” states part of Rule 17, Clause 5.
In January 2011, Speaker John A. Boehner , R-Ohio, gave the OK to electronic tablet devices as long as they are used “unobtrusively.” However, the ban on using devices for still photography, audio or video recording still stands.
Senators are subject to all House rules on decorum when on the House floor. It's up to the speaker to enforce those rules.
Hannah Hess contributed to this report.
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