(Washington Times) The House imposed a rule in the mid-1800s requiring members to remain “uncovered” while the chamber was in session, effectively barring them from wearing a hat in the august body.
Two centuries on, Democrats say it’s time to carve out an exception for one of their new members, Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, who was elected this month and will be the first member of Congress to wear a hijab, a traditional covering worn in public by some Muslim women.
Incoming House Rules Committee Chairman Jim McGovern of Massachusetts says it’s time for a religious exemption to the rule.
