Earlier this month, Idaho Reports spoke to Congressman Raul Labrador in his Washington DC office. On the list of topics: His thoughts on House leadership. In the interview, Labrador reiterated his displeasure with House Speaker John Boehner, and gave a hint at what was to to come.
Labrador said while he voted for Boehner as speaker earlier this year, he wouldn’t do it again in two years.
“There could be a change in leadership even sooner than that if he doesn’t start listening to the message of the American people,” Labrador told Aaron Kunz. Labrador has long been critical of Boehner’s leadership; Two years ago, he voted against Boehner as speaker. Labrador has also been part of a coalition of conservative lawmakers who have met with Boehner over defunding Planned Parenthood; Their latest meeting was Thursday afternoon.
On Friday morning, Labrador issued a statement on Boehner’s resignation “Though I differed with Speaker Boehner on the pace of reform, I respect and admire him. He served Ohio and the House with distinction and grace. I wish him the very best.”
You can see our full interview with Labrador in our upcoming season of Idaho Reports, which starts Friday, Oct. 2.
Meanwhile, Congressman Mike Simpson, a consistent supporter of Boehner, released a statement praising his friend. “I am confident that history will look kindly on John Boehner’s speakership,” he said.
“Good leadership requires wisdom, humility, a willingness to listen to those who might have a different perspective, and the courage to do the right thing,” Simpson said.
You can read Simpson and Labrador’s full statements below, and watch an excerpt of our interview with Labrador here.
Simpson Statement on Speaker Boehner’s Resignation
Washington, D.C. – Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson issued the following statement regarding the announcement of Speaker Boehner resigning.
“First, I cannot say strongly enough my gratitude for Speaker Boehner’s leadership over the past five years. Facing challenges that often seemed insurmountable, he has consistently acted with integrity and in the best interest of this nation. I am confident that history will look kindly on John Boehner’s speakership.
Leadership on the national stage looks appealing to many, but those who step into his shoes do not have an enviable task ahead. Good leadership requires wisdom, humility, a willingness to listen to those who might have a different perspective, and the courage to do the right thing. This is especially difficult when you are leading a fractious party and divided nation, but this is how Speaker Boehner led. I wish my friend well as he finishes his work here and moves on.”
###
LABRADOR ISSUES STATEMENT ON SPEAKER BOEHNER
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Raúl Labrador, R-Idaho, issued the following statement in response to today’s news that House Speaker John Boehner will resign next month:
“Though I differed with Speaker Boehner on the pace of reform, I respect and admire him. He served Ohio and the House with distinction and grace. I wish him the very best.
“As for succession, today is not the day for such talk. But I am committed to supporting leaders who will keep our promise to the American people to fight for real change in Washington.”
