CONGRESSMAN HANK JOHNSON
Georgia's Fourth Congressional District

Rep. Hank Johnson Elected Regional Whip for GA, FL, MS, AL, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico

Johnson will be a member of the Democratic leadership team and play a key role in advancing the agenda for Main Street

November 18, 2008

WASHINGTON --   Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) was honored by his Democratic Caucus colleagues yesterday as they elevated him to a leadership role as Regional Whip for the 8th District which is comprised of Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.  In that role, he will be responsible for gathering support for legislation when it comes to the floor for a vote.  The Democratic Caucus relies on the Whip Team to ensure enough votes to pass key legislative measures.

Congressman Johnson, entering his 2nd Term in the 111th Congress will join the team of House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (SC-06).  In this leadership role Rep. Johnson will lend a greater voice to the needs of citizens of Georgia’s 4th Congressional District which includes most of DeKalb and Rockdale counties and Gwinnett County along the I-85 corridor.

Commenting on Congressman Johnson’s election, Rep. Clyburn said, “As a freshman legislator, Congressman Johnson has shown outstanding leadership qualities.  A former criminal defense attorney, judge and local public official, he brought unique skills to Congress and he has gained the respect of his colleagues.  Very few one term members are selected for this role and since he did not seek it out, his election is testament to the confidence his colleagues place in him. We expect a very busy legislative agenda in the 111th and his assistance will be key to our efforts.”

“I am humbled and proud that my colleagues honored me with this position,” said Congressman Johnson.  “It came as a complete surprise.  I’m looking forward to working with Majority Whip Clyburn and the entire Leadership Team as we take on the challenges of moving this nation forward in these tough times.”

The term “Whip” comes from the British Parliament which adapted it from a fox-hunting job—the “Whipper-in”.   The “Whipper-in” is the rider that keeps the hounds focused on their mission.

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