Hoyer already seeking Majority Leader post

RAW STORY
Published: Wednesday November 8, 2006

As the media projects a Democratic House takeover and subsequent ascension of Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) to the position of Speaker, Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-MD) has already announced his intention to seek the position of Majority Leader.

Representative Jack Murtha (D-PA) is also widely expected to seek the leadership.

A statement released by Hoyer follows:

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"Voters gave Democrats a vote of confidence today to take our nation in a new direction, and to address the challenges that confront the American people. The new House Democratic Majority, led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, is determined to meet this responsibility and to lead and govern effectively.

"As part of the leadership team that helped regain the House Majority, I would like to continue to serve House Democrats as their Majority Leader. Over the past several months, I have talked with almost every one of my House colleagues and Members-elect, and am grateful for the depth of support I have received.

"As Majority Leader, I would continue to work closely with Speaker Pelosi to ensure our Party's unity, as I have over the last four years. Democrats are more unified than they have been in 50 years due to the hard work of our leaders and our Caucus. We have put forward responsible budgets, proposed smarter defense policies, advanced innovative ideas on energy independence, and stood strong against the privatization of Social Security. I have been proud to be a part of all of those efforts every step of the way.

"Furthermore, I believe that it is imperative that our next Majority Leader have the skills, ability and energy to reach out to every element of our diverse Caucus so that we may achieve consensus. Our new Majority Leader also must have an unwavering commitment to our core principles, and be an effective communicator and legislative strategist. I believe that I have established a strong track record in all of these areas over the last four years.

"I am very confident in the support I have from the House Democratic Caucus. I will continue to talk with my colleagues in the coming days and weeks about how best to take America in a new direction."