Centrist Democrats Back GOP Rule, Sparking Backlash

Two centrist Democrats, Rep. Jared Golden of Maine and Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, voted with Republicans to back a GOP procedural rule, clearing the way for GOP-led votes (including a Maine lobstermen protections bill) and enabling further messaging votes like a resolution to condemn socialism. The cross‑aisle move drew anger from Democrats and raised questions about loyalty and potential consequences, but it helped prevent a larger defeat and allowed Republican leaders to push their agenda amid intra‑party tensions.