Let’s clarify that headline. We’re not against voting against Speaker of the House John Boehner. Boehner is the one giving the thumbs down.
Of the 25 Republicans who crossed him, two have already experienced a bit of sweet revenge: Florida Representatives Daniel Webster and Richard Nugent. Shortly after being sworn in for his third term as speaker, Boehner’s first decision included they were no longer fit for “their prestigious spots on the House Rules Committee”.
Politico reported:
The reason for dethroning the two Florida Republicans was simple: Webster ran against Boehner for speaker, distributing fliers outlining his candidacy and talking about how he would better adhere to the House rules than the Ohio Republican. Nugent supported his fellow Floridian in the quixotic endeavor, which garnered the support of 12 lawmakers. Webster didn’t even give Boehner a heads-up that he was running, although leadership was aware early Tuesday morning that it could happen.
Apparently that’s just the beginning of any retaliation that can be expected, with even subcommittee chairmanships stripped and other perks disappearing as things unfold.
Politico’s article “Boehner takes revenge: Foes find themselves losing plum committee posts” is a recommended read on the matter.
News to Share Brief source: “Boehner takes revenge: Foes find themselves losing plum committee posts” by Jake Sherman and John Bresnahan for Politico
Image (license CC BY 2.0) by Mike Licht via Flickr
