Carney joins the minority in House of Representatives

At a minute past noon Wednesday John Carney joined an elite and small group.  He became only one of 8 democrats elected to the House of Representative’s in November.

Delaware’s only Congressman was in the House chambers when the Clerk of House hit the gavel to call the session to order.  A prayer was offered, members recited the pledge of allegiance, and then the roll was called.  Carney’s first official duty was to signal that he was present.

His website says that votes are scheduled for 9:30 Thursday morning.  The other two members of Delaware’s Congressional delegation offered their congratulations to Carney. Senator Tom Carper put out this message:

“As my colleagues and I mark the beginning of the 112th Congress, I have high hopes that we can continue the spirit of bipartisanship that helped make the last few weeks of the 111th Congress so successful. I am excited to get this session of Congress underway and work with my new and old colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help put Americans back to work, continue our economic recovery and restore sound fiscal policy. I especially look forward to working with the new Delaware Delegation, Senator Chris Coons and Representative John Carney. Together we will continue to serve the First State, creating the jobs Delawareans need, reducing our national deficit and making sure the health care reform law is properly implemented so that Delawareans get better health outcomes for less money. I will also continue to work for Delawareans to reform energy, education and tax policy and to make the federal government work more effectively and efficiently by reducing waste, fraud and abuse. I know this is still a difficult time for many Delawareans, but in these economic challenges I hope we can continue to find opportunities for growth and success. As I begin this near year and new session of Congress, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the people of Delaware.”

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Senator Chris Coons who was sworn-in back in November said:

“I’ve been proud to call John Carney a trusted friend for more than 20 years. He is a person of character, faith and integrity, and I know he will serve Delaware well in the House of Representatives. I congratulate Rep. Carney on being sworn-in today and look forward to working in partnership with him and Senator Carper to represent our great state in Washington.”

The three members of the Delaware delegation came to our First studios in Wilmington on Tuesday.  Representative Carney outlined what he thought was going to be the toughest part of getting through the upcoming session.

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