Republicans, Democrats Organize for the 112th Congress
The Republican Conference and Democratic Caucus in the House of Representatives met during the month of November to organize for the coming 112th session of Congress, which begins in January of 2011. Both parties selected leaders for the new session. The Republican Conference also extended an earmark moratorium begun earlier this year, as well as launched two new initiatives aimed at making the legislative process more open and accountable.
Specifically, the Republican Conference—which consists of all Republicans elected to the House of Representatives—selected Rep. John Boehner (OH-08) as Speaker of the House in the coming session. The Democratic Caucus voted 150-43 to allow Rep. Nancy Pelosi (CA-08) to stay on as leader of their party in the House. Rep. Heath Shuler (NC-11) was the other candidate running to be the Democratic leader.
The Republican Conference also added two new leadership slots specifically for newly-elected Republicans. With over 60 new Republicans being sworn into office in January, the addition of the two new freshmen slots in leadership is aimed at ensuring newly-elected Members are an integral part of the process. The freshmen selected for the slots were Tim Scott (SC-01) and Kristi Noem (SD-At Large).
As mentioned above, Republicans also renewed a moratorium on “earmarks” – which are special projects for specific Congressional Districts inserted into appropriations bills. Proponents of the moratorium argued that it is a first step towards greater fiscal responsibility. Congressman Platts advocated for the moratorium when it was first imposed earlier this year, and he has cosponsored a variety of bills aimed at reforming the earmark process.
Republicans also began the process of installing cameras in the House Committee on Rules. The Rules Committee—one of the most powerful committees in the House—is nonetheless one of only a few committees without cameras streaming its proceedings for the American public. The Rules Committee largely determines the terms of debate and what amendments will be allowed on the House floor, making openness in the Committee to be of particular importance.
Finally, Republicans launched a new web site to engage Americans directly on issues related to the transition to the new 112th Congress. The public is invited to offer ideas through the web site on how Congress can operate with greater transparency and accountability. Please feel free to visit the web site and share your ideas at www.GOPLeader.gov/NewMajority.Please do not attempt to reply to this message, as it is an unattended mailbox. If you wish to contact me about an issue addressed in this newsletter, or would like more information on what is happening in Congress, please visit my Web site at www.house.gov/platts for more information.
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