The 25 House Republicans who voted against John Boehner’s reelection as speaker Tuesday will be part of a “family conversation” about unity, Boehner tells reporters.
“‘We’re going to have a family conversation,’” Boehner recalls telling the GOP caucus, “which we had this morning, about bringing the team together. And I expect those conversations over the next couple days will continue. And we’ll come to a decision about how we move forward.”
Following the vote for House speaker Tuesday afternoon, two of the rebellious 25 members who voted against Boehner — Reps. Daniel Webster (R-FL) and Richard Nugent (R-FL) — were removed form the powerful House Rules Committee.
“We had a situation yesterday where we had to constitute the Rules Committee but because of some of the activities on the floor, two of our members weren’t put back on the committee immediately,” Boehner said. “I have not had a chance to talk to them, I have not had a chance to talk to our members.”
When asked about the possibility of more committee assignment shake ups, Boehner reiterated “We’re going to continue to have a family conversation.”
Boehner also further addressed the allegation that Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) talked to a David-Duke founded group in 2002. The Ohio Republican was understanding, saying that he too served in a state legislative where staffing was short and requests to speak in front of groups were plentiful.
“I know this man. I worked with him. I know what’s in his heart. He’s a decent, honest person who made a mistake. We’ve all made mistakes,” Boehner said.
Scalise, when pressed about the group and Duke, stressed his rejection of bigotry, pointed to those who have defended him and argued that is where the story ends.
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