House Speaker-designate Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel, continues to round out his leadership teams for the 2013-2014 sessions.
Weatherford announced Monday that: Rep. Robert Schenck, R-Spring Hill, will serve as chairman of the House Rules Committee; Rep. Marti Coley, R-Marianna, has been selected as speaker pro-tempore; and Rep. Chris Dorworth, R-Lake Mary, will be House majority leader.
Rep. Seth McKeel, R-Lakeland, was named chairman of the powerful Appropriations Committee on Oct. 9.
The state Legislature will hold its organizational session on Nov. 20. Because of the Thanksgiving holiday, this will not be a full committee week.
Weatherford made the following comments about each of the latest appointments in a release on Monday.
Rep. Robert Schenck, Rules chairman
Rep. Schenck is a bold and courageous member who understands the importance of the rules and who will help ensure that they are applied in an evenhanded and consistent manner. As a history teacher, he has a full appreciation for the institution and the democratic process.
Rep. Marti Coley, speaker pro-tempore
Rep. Coley has a very special place in the House of Representatives. Her loyalty is unmatched, and her ability to communicate the principles and priorities of the House will be of great value. With her experience as a schoolteacher, she possesses the desire to listen and also serve important qualities necessary to be an effective ambassador for the House of Representatives.
Rep. Chris Dorworth, House majority leader
From my experience as a speaker-designate, I know the value of being afforded a meaningful role in the process. Rep. Dorworth will serve the members well as the next majority leader. His thoughtful, strategic, and positive approach will help guide our Republican caucus as we advance a reform-focused agenda. As the majority leader, Rep. Dorworth will lead the charge of advocating for smaller government and our individual freedoms.
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