U.S. Rep. Dennis Ross, R-Fla., part of the congressional leadership as senior deputy majority whip, announced Friday he will run to become majority whip now that current U.S. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, R-La., is looking to become House majority leader.
Ross laid out Monday why he is running for the majority whip post, the third highest position in the House:
I am running for majority whip because Republicans must be willing to put our principles on the line in order to draw a stark difference to the failed policies of this president. It is time to advance our conservative cause in a positive way by passing legislation that forces the president to either sign bills into law or explain to the American people why he vetoed them.
For too long we promised Americans we would repeal Obamacare, secure our border, and operate the people’s House in an open and transparent way. It is time we live up to these promises.
Therefore, I propose a ‘Compact with Congress’ that includes the following core pledges:
1) Operate the House on principle by returning to regular order while being proactive and inclusive.
2) Empower all members of our conference by using the Suspension Calendar to advance their priorities and by bringing bills with strong Republican co-sponsor support to the floor.
3) Within 90 days, bring to the floor for a vote a credible alternative to Obamacare.
4) Within 90 days, bring to the floor for a vote immigration reform beginning with border security.
5) Within 90 days, bring to the floor for a vote tax code reform so Americans have more money in their pockets.
As majority whip, I commit to using my seat at the leadership table to achieve these principles. I will unify our party by bringing the diverse voices of our members and the American people to the table so all ideas and concerns are thoughtfully considered.
U.S. Rep. Dennis Ross, R-Fla., was first elected to Congress in 2010 after serving four terms in the Florida House of Representatives.
