A bit ago we had a story on how newly elected members of Congress got their new offices. Several members said at the time they planned to make their office also their home.
Here’s some more.
Of the 94 incoming members of the House of Representatives, 90% are Republicans, nearly 40% have law degrees and about 35% have never before held elective office.
Oh, and at least 15% plan to bed down in their congressional offices.
Actually it sort of makes sense. Congress only works 3 days a week (you didn’t know that?) and most members head home after the last vote.
It’s also the ultimate I’m-not-a-professional-politician statement. With political imagery firmed in mind and voters yelling about fiscal excess, a number of incoming House members plan to camp out near their new desks. Many more are still undecided but may well join the sleep-sofa caucus.
Nobody seems to know for certain how many lawmakers currently camp in their offices. Estimates range into the dozens. The practice appears to crest after Republican wave elections. Anybody remember the Seinfeld episode where George Castanza builds a nest under his desk so he can sleep at work?
