Ryan's extra family time? Pelosi pounces

By Susan Ferrechio, Susan Ferrechio

Published December 20, 2015

Likely speaker-designate Paul Ryan is fielding criticism from the right and unwanted praise from the left over the family-friendly work schedule he is seeking in exchange for taking the gavel from John Boehner at the end of the month.

Ryan, R-Wis., who appears increasingly likely to be elected speaker next week, told Republican lawmakers if he takes the job he won't spend his weekends and recess days traveling the country and holding fundraisers. Instead, Ryan said he plans to return home to Janesville, Wis., to spent time with his wife and three young children.

Democrats seized on Ryan's appeal for seemingly fewer work hours than typical House speakers, and say his demand dovetails with Democratic calls for the House to approve paid medical leave, sick leave and other family-friendly legislation that Ryan has opposed.

"I hope that respect for his particular situation would translate to a recognition for what that means for all American families," House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said Thursday of Ryan's desire for a reduced work schedule.