Outgoing congressman cracks open beer on House floor after condemning partisanship in final speech

But Joe Cunningham did not take a sip as it is banned on the floor

An outgoing congressman cracked open a beer on the House floor after condemning partisanship in his final speech.

Lawmaker Joe Cunningham celebrated his time in Washington DC by opening the DC Brau “Joint Resolution” pale ale - but did not take a sip as alcohol is banned on the floor.

The Democratic congressman for Charleston, South Carolina, previously tried to bring a six-pack of beer onto the floor in 2019 but was stopped by officials.

Mr Cunningham, who won his seat in 2018, lost the 1st District race to Republican Nancy Mace by one percentage point, a margin of just 5,000 votes.

In his final speech he attacked those politicians who “consistently put their party ahead of their own people.”

“In my short tenure, I’ve been disappointed with a lot that I’ve encountered,” said Mr Cunningham.

“I’ve seen members mock the president behind his back, and praise him to his face. Loathe him in private, and worship him on television.”

He also took a shot at GOP politicians who are more interested in keeping their seats than working for their constituents.

“I’ve seen them intentionally spread misinformation and lies, flirt with white supremacists, and pander to the most extreme voices in our society,” he added.

“And it’s been for one reason and one reason alone: self-preservation. People more interested in protecting themselves and their party than protecting our country.”