WASHINGTON, D.C.–It’s about not throwing you under the bus, is what Rep. Steven Palazzo said about why he voted for Rep. John Boehner (R-Ohio) for Speaker of the House. He joined Mississippi’s Republican delegation in voting for the incumbent speaker.
“This week, I strongly considered opposing John Boehner for Speaker. After much prayer and deep reflection I realized that a viable, more conservative candidate would not, and ultimately did not, emerge. While Mr. Gohmert and Mr. Yoho should be applauded, in the end they simply did not have the votes to beat Speaker Boehner, period,” said Palazzo in a statement that came out shortly after Tuesday’s vote.
This week the Mississippi Tea Party endorsed Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), who they feel is more conservative and who would not be as quick to compromise with Democrats or the president.
The group also asked all four Mississippi representatives to vote for Gohmert. None did.
“I realize many people disagree with this decision, but I was not willing to compromise my ability to serve South Mississippi for a purely symbolic vote that could later be used to punish my constituents. Throwing my constituents under the bus is just not an option,” said Palazzo.
Palazzo said he was convinced after an hour-long one-on-one meeting with Boehner.
“I expressed grievances and laid out exactly what the people in South Mississippi want, a conservative leader who will stand up to the liberal agenda of President Obama as the nation’s top Republican. Then I looked him directly in the eye and asked if he could and would be the man for that job, and he unequivocally said yes. I believe him, and am willing to give the Speaker and his team a chance to put us back on a conservative path for America.
“Make no mistake, I will hold Speaker Boehner accountable for his actions. If he refuses to put forward conservative solutions to our nation’s problems, I will strongly oppose his every move.”
Gohmert got three votes.
