By Pacific Island Times News Staff
By a vote of 220 to 209, members of the U.S. House of Representatives elected Rep. Mike Johnson as the new speaker of the 118th Congress filling the leadership void created by the ouster of California Republican Kevin McCarthy.
“This is a good day for Congress, as we can finally reconvene all critical business and continue the work our constituents elected us to do," Guam Del. James Moylan said.
"This is also a good day for Guam, as we have another speaker who understands the importance of our island and community, which goes far beyond military installations," he added.
McCarthy was removed from his position as House speaker on Oct. 5 after he reached an 11th-hour deal to avert a government shutdown with the help of House Democrats.
While there have been unique challenges for the Republican Caucus to identify a nominee who could secure the needed votes on the floor, Moylan said Johnson brings a strong conservative agenda that appeals to all aspects of the GOP caucus and membership in general.
“Mike is a constitutional attorney, who prioritizes faith and family. On multiple occasions, I have had the opportunity to discuss critical issues affecting my island community," Moylan said.
"We currently serve together on the House Armed Services Committee, and I look forward to working with him in a different capacity," he added.
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