Rep. Michele Bachmann’s (R-MN) been a ubiquitous presence in Iowa since launching a presidential bid. Less so on Capitol Hill, where she’s missed 40% of her votes in that span.
According to The Hill, Bachmann’s absentee rate is significantly higher than other lawmakers currently running; Rep. Ron Paul (R-TX), who is not seeking re-election to focus on his presidential race, has only missed 8% of his votes since declaring his candidacy. Thad McCotter (R-MI) has missed 10%.
That stat could be especially perilous for Bachmann, however. Tim Pawlenty has repeatedly accused her of being an ineffective legislator and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the 40% number show up in his public statements this week.
Benjy Sarlin
Benjy Sarlin is a reporter for Talking Points Memo and co-writes the campaign blog, TPM2012. He previously reported for The Daily Beast/Newsweek as their Washington Correspondent and covered local politics for the New York Sun.
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