Americans for Prosperity has condemned today’s vote by a number of New Jersey Congressman in support of the so-called “Slaughter Rule”.

In a procedural move, GOP lawmakers tried to prevent the use of the “Slaughter Rule,” which would allow the House to pass controversial health care legislation without a vote. The tactic has come under fire as being an unconstitutional maneuver that would undermine the system of checks and balances that is a cornerstone of American democracy. One group, Landmark Legal Foundation, has already threatened a law suit if the House passes the Senate bill via the “Slaughter Rule.”

The GOP-led effort garnered 203 votes as the 175 Republicans were joined by 28 Democrats. But 222 Democrats blocked the attempt, including seven New Jersey lawmakers:

Rep. Rob Andrews (D-01)
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-06)
Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-08)
Rep. Steve Rothman (D-09)
Rep. Donald Payne (D-10)
Rep. Rush Holt (D-12)
Rep. Albio Sires (D-13)

AFP State Director Steve Lonegan blasted the move, saying “Not only are these Congressman trying to ram through a bill the people of their state don’t want but unbelievably they are now about to pass the bill without even voting on it.

“This is just a cowardly act by a bunch of people completely out of touch with their constituents and who will do everything possible to pass their government takeover of our health care system even if it means turning the constitution on its head.

“Amazingly, just hours after hundreds of his constituents went to his district office to tell him to vote no on health care, Congressman Rothman has once again ignored their voices and made it clear that he thinks he knows better than them.”