Yes, it's a House rule, but if I'm not mistaken, I think it's one that the Republicans imposed on themselves, if I'm understanding it correctly. I don't think the Democrats ever had that rule in place for themselves, but I might be wrong.
I am tired of them using these tactics, and I hope it backfires on them, BIG TIME.
I read about that, but can't recall precisely, either, though I thought it was mandatory for all House members.
In any event, I hope it does backfire; Delay said this is causing the Republicans to unite, after a period of division within. (A rallying point). Let's hope this gets them off their rears (perhaps they needed some fire applied).
You are correct and IIRC, the House Republicans recently discussed changing it, and Pelosi and crew actually complained about the idea that they might, condemning the House Republicans for lowering their standards...even though it's strictly a Republican rule and the Democrats have no such ethics constrictions on themselves. Utter ridiculousness.