Long-simmering tensions exploded into the open earlier this month when the Prince George’s County Council initially rejected a rules change that would have allowed members of the council to attend meetings and vote on legislation virtually.
The initial 5-5 vote two weeks ago quickly led supporters of the measure to denounce colleagues, saying they were deliberately targeting District 7 Council member Krystal Oriadha, who is due to give birth in about two weeks.
While some members argued against the change by talking about tradition and process, at least one admitted it, saying it was specifically because of political disagreements with Oriadha. That led to a rally outside the council chambers last week, which was subsequently followed up by an apparent olive branch.
On Tuesday, that branch was delivered to Oriadha and more progressive members of the council, after a revote on the issue passed 8-0, with three members abstaining.
Council member Jolene Ivey, who was out sick two weeks ago, attended the meeting to cast her vote this time. At-large Council member Calvin Hawkins, who lashed out at Oriadha the first time, as well as at-large member Mel Franklin changed their votes.
Click here to read the rest of the article written by John Domen over at WTOP
