House stenographer loses it during shutdown vote

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House stenographer loses it during shutdown vote

A stenographer for the House began shouting about God, free masons during shutdown vote.

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A woman described by lawmakers and aides as a long-time House stenographer has been removed from the chamber during a vote after she began shouting. She was led to the elevator by security. (Oct. 16) AP

Melanie Eversley, USA TODAY 3:58 a.m. EDT October 17, 2013

In this image from House Television, with partial voting totals on the screen, a woman, at the rostrum just below the House presiding officer, seen between the "yea" and "nay" wording, is removed from the House chamber after she began shouting during the vote for the bill to end the partial 16-day government shutdown. The woman was described by lawmakers and aides as a long-time House stenographer.(Photo: AP)

Story Highlights

• Stenographer began shouting as vote took place
• Woman was carried off by U.S. Capitol Police as she shouted about God, Freemasons
• Lawmakers appeared bewildered as scene unfolded before them

A stenographer for the House apparently lost it Wednesday night as lawmakers passed a government funding and debt limit deal, Roll Call reports. The stenographer began shouting about God and the Freemasons as the vote took place.

"He will not be mocked. He will not be mocked. Don't touch me. He will not be mocked," the stenographer shouted as she was taken away by U.S. Capitol Police. "The greatest deception here is not 'one nation under God.' It never was. Had it been, it would not have been."

She continued, "The Constitution would not have been written by Freemasons. They go against God."

She went on, "You cannot serve two masters. Praise be to God, Lord Jesus Christ."

SHUTDOWN END: Congress passes legislation

Lawmakers watched silently as the scene unfolded before them. After the stenographer was removed from the chamber, House members turned to each other.

U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, said the woman had a crazed look on her face, according to the Associated Press.