WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Looking to tie Republican lawmakers to presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., has called for votes on the real estate tycoon's controversial proposals.
In a statement released on Thursday, Reid noted that Trump will likely be a frequent topic of conversation as Congressional Republicans gather for their annual retreat.
'Since Republican leaders in the House and Senate have pledged loyalty to Trump, the obvious next step is to vote on his policies, including his unconstitutional plan to bar people from entering the United States based on their religion,' Reid said.
He added, 'These votes will give all Senators a chance to take a stand on the policy issues dominating the public debate - and Republicans a chance to stand with the frontrunner for their nomination.'
Reid argued that scheduling the votes could be accomplished easily and efficiently under an open amendment process.
The Nevada Senator said Democrats would seek floor votes on Trump's policies themselves if Republicans are 'afraid' to bring the proposals up for votes.
Reid's request is likely an attempt to exploit what seems to be a growing divide between Trump and more establishment Republicans.
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