In a historic moment, Vice President Kamala Harris broke a nearly 200-year-old record by casting her 32nd tiebreaking vote in the U.S. Senate. The milestone was achieved as she voted to confirm a new federal judge in Washington, DC. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer hailed this accomplishment, emphasizing its significance.
The previous record of tiebreaking votes was held by John C Calhoun, who served as vice president from 1825 to 1832, casting 31 tiebreaking votes during his tenure. Harris had initially tied Calhoun’s record back in July. The role of casting tiebreaking votes stands out as one of the few constitutional duties assigned to vice presidents, and Harris has frequently found herself in this position due to the closely divided Senate, with an almost equal split between Democrats and Republicans.
Apart from her involvement in judicial nominations, Harris played a pivotal role in advancing significant legislative measures. Notable among these were the American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion pandemic relief package, and the Inflation Reduction Act, which aimed to control prescription drug costs and promote financial incentives for clean energy initiatives.
By PTI
