Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/boehner-takes-gavel-to-become-speaker-of-the-house Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Boehner Takes Gavel to Become Speaker of the House Politics Jan 5, 2011 2:22 PM EDT After two decades in Congress and a midterm election that saw his party regain control of the House, Ohio Republican John Boehner is now the 61st Speaker of the House of Representatives. Outgoing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi delivered remarks before handing the gavel to Boehner, praising him for having “earned the respect” of members of Congress. Preparing to take the oath of office, Boehner reiterated the core GOP message of trimming the government, saying “our aim will be to give the government back to the American people.” Boehner began the day with a prayer service and luncheon before being the swearing in ceremony. As Speaker, Boehner is expected to focus on spending cuts in the midst of budgetary shortfalls. But despite taking control of the House, the GOP agenda will face obstacles, with a Democrat in the White House and a Democratic majority in the Senate. Read more politics coverage from the NewsHour below: New Congress Kicks Off With Vows to Cut Spending: What’s on the Table? Debating Rules of Debate: Is Senate in a ‘Constant Filibuster’? A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now
After two decades in Congress and a midterm election that saw his party regain control of the House, Ohio Republican John Boehner is now the 61st Speaker of the House of Representatives. Outgoing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi delivered remarks before handing the gavel to Boehner, praising him for having “earned the respect” of members of Congress. Preparing to take the oath of office, Boehner reiterated the core GOP message of trimming the government, saying “our aim will be to give the government back to the American people.” Boehner began the day with a prayer service and luncheon before being the swearing in ceremony. As Speaker, Boehner is expected to focus on spending cuts in the midst of budgetary shortfalls. But despite taking control of the House, the GOP agenda will face obstacles, with a Democrat in the White House and a Democratic majority in the Senate. Read more politics coverage from the NewsHour below: New Congress Kicks Off With Vows to Cut Spending: What’s on the Table? Debating Rules of Debate: Is Senate in a ‘Constant Filibuster’? A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now