What Would It Take For Hoeven To Vote Against His Party Leadership?

What would it take for John Hoeven to vote against the wishes of his leader Mitch McConnell? The longer Hoeven serves in the Senate, the more I find myself asking that question. I’m not alone in wondering. The latest example was his vote against net neutrality.

The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) voted against maintaining the structure of a free and open internet. The unpopular decision resulted in an uproar among the general public. Democrats, Independents, and Republicans alike overwhelmingly disapproved of the ruling, including right here in North Dakota. Congress now has an opportunity to uphold the demands of their electorate. It should have made this vote an easy choice. Senator Heitkamp voted the way her constituents wanted. Yet, Hoeven voted with McConnell and against the wishes of North Dakota residents. What would it take?

Hoeven’s vote against net neutrality instantly reminded me of his support for Betsy Devos. Against the overwhelming rejection of Devos among North Dakotans, Hoeven voted for her to be the leader of public education in America. In my opinion, there is nobody less qualified for their position in the Trump administration. North Dakotans knew she was unqualified. They told Heitkamp and Hoeven she shouldn’t be confirmed. Senator Heitkamp voted the way her constituents wanted. Yet, Hoeven voted with McConnell and against the wishes of North Dakota residents in supporting her. What would it take?

Here is the deal, I personally like John Hoeven. That is why it is so frustrating to see him continually vote against the wishes of North Dakotan residents and along party lines. Why does he continue to get a pass? They don’t give Heitkamp a pass. People assume Hoeven knows better than his voting record. A lot of them I’ve talked to are disappointed since he has moved to Washington. They ask me, what would it take for Hoeven to finally take a stand?