By Eric Stock
WASHINGTON – Darin LaHood has been given his committee assignments now that he’s been sworn into Congress.
The Peoria Republican said he’s just glad to play a larger role in the law-making process. LaHood joins the U.S. House where the Republicans hold their largest majority since 1928. For LaHood it’s a far cry from Springfield, where Democrats have held strong majorities.
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“Coming from a super-minority in the state Senate to a big majority, I’m just happy to be where I am at to be in the majority,” LaHood said.
LaHood will serve on the natural resources and science and technology committees, which he said ties in well with the universities in his congressional district, Illinois State, Bradley and Western Illinois.
He was sworn in on Sept. 17, one week after winning a special election in the Illinois 18th Congressional District.
LaHood said the Republican Party should seize the chance to lead the party in a new direction now that House Speaker John Boehner is leaving.
“I think it creates a great opportunity for us as Republicans to look to new leadership, a fresh face, someone who can come in and bridge that gap in our Republican conference,” LaHood said. “(Republicans) haven’t been at proactive as we need to be. We have been reactive.”
LaHood told WJBC’s Scott Laughlin he did not support Boehner keeping the leadership post and that he will back a conservative replacement. He said Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan would fit the bill, but he would also support U.S Rep. Trey Gowdy of Georgia.
Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].
