Maryland Del. Eric Bouchat, a Republican representing Carroll and Frederick counties, has faced calls for his resignation from the House chamber for over a third of the 90-day legislative session, staying home while a marble statue of Aristotle remains in his seat. The calls stem from a protest over Republican political irrelevance in the Democratic-controlled General Assembly, which Democrats hold veto-proof majorities in both chambers and allows legislation to advance without Republican support. Despite this, Bouchats maintains that he is more effective doing this protest than casting votes that don't matter. He earns $55,000 per year as a full-time legislator during the session, and receives free license plate, a daily living allowance during session and several other office benefits.