HFC members go rogue to block Social Security bill

While all eyes was on the ballot, two members of the House Freedom Caucus went rogue during Tuesday’s pro forma session to try to kill a widely supported Social Security bill — again ambushing their leadership.

In a parliamentary maneuverRep. Bob good (R-Va.) asked for unanimous consent to table Social Security legislation. Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.), who was chairman, did not object. The House Republican leadership had no idea the HFC members would do this. It violates the protocol for pro forma sessions.

The bill they lined up has 330 co-sponsors and got enough signatures on the discharge petition to force a vote. HFC members have complained about the successful effort. The legislation would lift limits on the Social Security benefits that public employees or their spouses can qualify for if they also have public pensions.

GOP leadership weighs what needs to be done.