Paul Ryan was chosen to be the 62nd speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, a post he reluctantly accepted considering the challenges of corralling the divided GOP caucus into action.
Ryan must give up his cherished chairmanship of the powerful House Ways and Means committee, a position the budget wonk considered to be the job of a lifetime.
Let's do this. #SpeakerRyan pic.twitter.com/DRFtRFnpt0
-- Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) October 29, 2015
He replaces John Boehner, whose sudden departure was pushed by the members of the so-called Freedom Caucus, a minority group of Republican congressmen who argued Boehner was too quick to compromise with Democrats and President Obama to avoid government shutdowns and other impasses.
"I leave with no regrets or burdens," Boehner, who is prone to emotion, said in a farewell speech just before Ryan was elected in a 236 to 11 vote by the GOP. Rep. Daniel Webster of Florida got 9 votes, while Rep Jim Cooper or Tennessee and former Secretary of State Colin Powell each received one vote.
"Real change takes time," Boehner warned in is last address to the house. "Yes, freedom makes all things possible, but patience is what makes all things real. So believe in the long, slow struggle."
My friends, you have done me a great honor. Thank you. #SpeakerRyan pic.twitter.com/sLYgmpH1Lv
-- Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) October 29, 2015
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