Newly elected Congressman Joe Morelle says he will back Nancy Pelosi to remain as speaker of the House of Representatives.
Morelle, (D-Irondequoit), the longtime former New York State legislator and Assembly Majority Leader released a statement Tuesday evening saying that, “In these critical times, it’s more important than ever that the Democratic Majority has a leader with the experience and skill necessary to make our shared priorities a reality and create an America that works for everyone – that’s why I am proud to support Nancy Pelosi as our next Speaker of the House.
Morelle, who was elected to the 25th Congressional District seat earlier this month, says that he always said he would support the person best positioned to benefit his community and the country, and he says Pelosi knows that the nation needs to work to lower healthcare costs and create more opportunities for working families.
Last week, 16 House Democrats signed a letter vowing to oppose Pelosi. At that time, Morelle said that he understands the impetus for new thoughts and ideas, but said there’s also something to be said about people who have been in positions of leadership.
The House Democratic caucus votes behind closed doors on its leadership Wednesday.
Pelosi is expected to win the vote within the caucus, but there may be a tougher test when there is a vote on the House floor Jan. 3 in which Pelosi will need a majority of the full House to keep the speakership.
