Friday, January 4, 2012

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District was appointed Chief Deputy Whip today for the 113th Congress by House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer.

“I look forward to this new opportunity to work with Whip Hoyer and assist in House Democrats’ efforts to promote an agenda that creates jobs and opportunities for the American people,” Congressman Luján said.  “Whip Hoyer’s efforts have led to a unified and strong Democratic Caucus, and I am excited to work closely with my colleagues to build a united front on policies that will lead to a stronger economy and a brighter future for all Americans.  This new post will also ensure that the voices of New Mexicans will be part of the discussion as the House moves forward on the critical issues facing our country.”

Party whips are responsible for mobilizing the party vote on important legislation before they come to the floor to be voted on.  The whip also acts as a liaison between the Members and the Caucus to help build strong support for the Democratic agenda.  Whip Hoyer’s team of Chief Deputy Whips assists with this process and are part of the House Democratic Leadership.

Hoyer announced that he is also appointing Reps. Keith Ellison and Terri Sewell as Chief Deputy Whips to join current Senior Chief Deputy Whip Rep. John Lewis and Chief Deputy Whips Reps. G.K. Butterfield, Diana DeGette, Jim Matheson, Jan Schakowsky, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and Peter Welch.

“In the 113th Congress, we will continue to have an outstanding Whip team that, thanks to these new members, is more diverse than ever before," stated Democratic Whip Hoyer.  “They reflect the diversity of our Caucus, bringing a wide range of views and perspectives to the table.  Over the past two years, our Whip team has helped maintain unity in our Caucus on a number of votes important to protecting our middle class and creating opportunities that lead to good jobs and a higher quality of life for all Americans.  I look forward to working closely with the new and returning Chief Deputy Whips to bring Democrats from different segments of our Caucus together as we pursue our shared goal of helping grow America’s middle class and moving our country forward.”

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