House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI)
U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan says Republicans are working closely with President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, as he transitions into power.
Speaking to reporters in Washington D.C. Tuesday morning, the Wisconsin Republican called it the “dawn of a new unified Republican government,” which is focused on turning Trump’s victory into progress for the country.
“We are on the same page, we’re working hand-in-glove, and we’re going to make sure this is a very successful administration,” Ryan said. “But more importantly, we’re going to make sure that the voices we heard from this election from the American people are acted upon.”
Ryan said he’s been having regular conversations with President-elect Trump’s administration about how to make his campaign promises happen, and he’s confident about what’s ahead for them after January.
The Speaker dismissed questions about decisions being made by Trump’s transition team, including the naming of Steve Bannon as chief strategist. The appointment has been under fire from Democrats and Republicans who argue Bannon, a former editor at Breitbart News with alleged ties to white nationalists, does not belong in the White House.
Ryan would only say Bannon is a person who helped win Trump an incredible victory, but noted that the next president is going to be judged by what he accomplishes. “The president is going to be judged on the results of this administration,” he said. “That’s why we’re very eager to get up and running, to help with his transition.”
Ryan retains role as speaker
Also on Tuesday, U.S. House Republicans voted to give Ryan another two years to serve as speaker. The move comes despite questions about his support among certain factions in the House GOP caucus. He was unanimously nominated to remain speaker when Congress returns in January, although the decision is still subject to a floor vote from all 435 members of the House.