Republicans weigh challenge to DSA lawmakers’ oath

Republican lawmakers are discussing a proposed House procedure that could challenge Democratic Socialists of America-affiliated members’ ability to take the constitutional oath, but no member has been blocked from taking office under the approach. The proposal’s use and legal effect remain uncertain, and Speaker Mike Johnson has said Republicans will follow the law. Rep. Keith Self of Texas said he is considering challenging lawmakers who support replacing the Constitution, arguing that they could not sincerely swear to uphold it. The Democratic Socialists of America’s platform calls for replacing the current Constitution with a new governing document. Self’s position is an argument about the oath, not a ruling that any candidate is ineligible. Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee said he intends to try to block Darializa Avila Chevalier from taking office. He cited a deleted 2019 social media post in which Chevalier said she wiped her hands on an American flag because she lacked a napkin. The reported challenge is a stated intention; the procedure has not been used against her or another elected member. An analysis by the Center for Renewing America outlines a possible process in...