We cannot accept the indifference and indignity our Republican colleagues continue to show #Dreamers. Thank you @NancyPelosi for showing us all what it means to be a true public servant and leader. #GoNancyGo https://t.co/Wv0yq8D8wo
— Rep. Joe Kennedy III (@RepJoeKennedy) February 7, 2018
On social media, many users pointed out that Ms Pelosi had not only spoken for many hours, but had done so while consuming only a little water – and wearing four-inch high heels. Democrat supporters and Ms Pelosi’s own party members contributed to a wave of congratulatory tweets using the hashtag #GoNancyGo. Republicans, however, used the same tag to criticise the stunt as a waste of time.
Pelosi is wearing four-inch heels and has only been sipping water these last five hours.
— Daniella Diaz (@DaniellaMicaela) February 7, 2018
Her dedication to speaking about Daca also led to her speech being called a “Dacabuster” – a play on the filibuster technique sometimes used in the Senate to block or delay legislation by refusing to yield the floor. The move was not technically a filibuster. The House has different rules from the Senate that limit speaking time to prevent use of the technique. But as minority leader, Ms Pelosi had the right to speak for as long as she wished.
Just seeing all of these #GoNancyGo messages. Truly very moving. But let’s not lose focus of who really matters here. Thank you to our #Dreamers. And thank you to your parents for allowing us all the pleasure of having you be a part of our American family every day. #DREAMActNow
— Nancy Pelosi (@NancyPelosi) February 7, 2018
The historian’s office of the House told reporters that the speech was the longest they were aware of without further research – easily beating the five hour, 15 minute known record of Champ Clark set in 1909. When she concluded her remarks, fellow Democrats present in the chamber applauded and cheered as she took her seat. The controversy comes as Republican and Senate leaders managed to agree a two-year budget deal which they hope will avoid another government shutdown. The US government was left devoid of funding for a weekend as both sides argued over funding for specific measures – including immigration. The latest deal does not contain specific protections for Dreamers – something which many Democrats like Ms Pelosi are expected to oppose. Many fiscal conservatives on the Republican side are equally unhappy with the increased spending the new funding deal proposes. Source: BBC