The Virginia House of Delegates Republican Caucus unanimously elected its leadership team at an organizational meeting Sunday and nominated Delegate William J. Howell (R-Stafford) for an eighth term as Speaker. Majority Leader Kirk Cox (R-Colonial Heights), Majority Caucus Chairman Tim Hugo (R-Fairfax) and Majority Whip Jackson Miller (R-Manassas) were each also elected unanimously.
“I am grateful to my colleagues in the Republican caucus for their nomination, and I hope to earn the support of the entire House of Delegates when it convenes for the 2016 session,” said Speaker Howell. “Serving as Speaker is one of the highest honors of my life. The office comes with obligations to all members, Republican and Democrat, and to the people of the Commonwealth. I take those obligations seriously and pledge to serve with the judiciousness, honor and integrity the office commands.”
Speaking about the unanimous election of House Leadership, Howell added, “Our caucus heads into the 2016 General Assembly session united, as the unanimous election of our leadership team demonstrates. I am privileged to serve with Majority Leader Cox, Chairman Hugo and Majority Whip Miller. We look forward to advancing a bold, positive agenda to strengthen our economy and improve access to education. We will continue to chart a prudent fiscal course as we write the next biennial budget. We will work with Governor McAuliffe when we can, but also defend our principles when we must.”
“I appreciate the support of my colleagues and look forward to continuing to serve as Majority Leader,” said Majority Leader Cox. “The Republican Majority in the House of Delegates has been the one constant in Virginia politics for more than a decade. We have offered a governing vision that produces results on the issues that matter most to Virginians and we will continue to do so in the years ahead. I look forward to working with the Speaker, Chairman Hugo, Majority Whip Miller and our entire caucus this term.”
“It is a great honor to be part of the House Republican Caucus leadership team and to serve with such a remarkable group of leaders in the House of Delegates,” said Caucus Chairman Hugo. “Thank you to my colleagues for their vote of confidence. We are united and ready to get to work on behalf of our citizens throughout Virginia.”
“I am grateful to my colleagues for their support and confidence,” said Majority Whip Miller. “Our caucus will continue to advance a positive governing vision and will continue to stand up for conservative principles and values. I am excited about the opportunities we have in the 2016 session and beyond.”
The caucus opened its meeting with a prayer in honor of the victims of the terrorist attacks in Paris, France this week.
“The people of France, especially those who lost family and loved ones, are in our thoughts and prayers,” said Speaker Howell. “Virginia and France share a bond forged over 200 years ago. The acts of evil we saw last week only strengthen that bond. We stand united with France.”
