News

Nicholson Applauds New Republican Leadership Team

November 18, 1998

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Republican National Committee Chairman Jim Nicholson issued the following statement today congratulating newly-elected members of the House Republican leadership:

"Today's elections assure a balanced blend of experience and fresh faces to lead Congress into the 21st century based on compassionate, common-sense conservative principles and pragmatic solutions to America's problems.

"Bob Livingston has been an effective and respected member of Congress and I share the unanimous view of the Conference that he possesses the skills and personality to move the House on a productive course in the days and months ahead as Speaker of the House.

"Dick Armey was integral to making the Republican Party the majority party in the House of Representatives. He continues to demonstrate the leadership skills necessary to guide our common-sense conservative principles into the 21st century.

"Tom DeLay served as one of the Republican Party's best vote-counters, and I am pleased he will serve another term as Majority Whip. He continues to help the House Republicans stay on their tax-cutting, budget-balancing and education-reforming agenda.

"While we all owe a debt of gratitude to John Boehner for his splendid work, I know I join with John and all Republicans applauding the election of J.C. Watts as chairman of the House Republican Conference. I am especially proud that the highest-ranking African-American in the history of Congress, is a Republican."

"Tillie Fowler has shown wonderful leadership as a member of the House Republican Conference and is well prepared to move forward as a member of the House leadership.

"I worked closely with John Linder as Chairman of the NRCC, and while he will be missed, I know that Tom Davis will bring enormous energy to the job of increasing our majority in the House in 2000."

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MIKE COLLINS
Republican National Committee