Johnson didn’t attend nomination ceremony as a result of he was quarantining from a previous publicity, throughout which he twice examined unfavourable for the virus, Johnson spokesman Ben Voelkel mentioned in a press release Saturday.
If the three senators stay out this month, it could successfully stop Barrett from being confirmed to the Supreme Courtroom — given Republicans’ 53-47 majority within the chamber — till they return, which may very well be after the November elections throughout a lame-duck session. A lame-duck affirmation is a state of affairs that GOP leaders are desirous to keep away from in case they lose management of the chamber subsequent month.
Affirmation hearings may go on with out Lee and Tillis, each of whom met in particular person with Barrett earlier this week, and will take part nearly within the hearings.
Senate Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham mentioned he wants the 2 senators to be again by October 15, when the committee will start its debate of the nomination after the hearings are executed. The South Carolina Republican mentioned he expects the members who’ve examined constructive to be again in time for a committee vote on October 22.
The priority is that if Democrats boycott the committee vote, the GOP could not have a quorum for that vote if each senators are absent. The committee guidelines require a majority of members on the panel to be current for a quorum. However even when they do not have a quorum, Senate Majority Chief Mitch McConnell can all the time advance the nomination to the ground below the foundations.
Johnson’s workplace mentioned the Wisconsin senator was once more uncovered “shortly after” returning to Washington on September 29 and was examined Friday afternoon.
“This check got here again constructive. Senator Johnson feels wholesome and isn’t experiencing signs. He’ll stay remoted till given the all-clear by his physician,” Voelkel mentioned in a press release.
Many of the workers within the Republican senator’s Washington workplace have been working remotely, and the workplace will go all-virtual for the quick future, Voelkel mentioned.
This story has been up to date with extra background data and context.
