Emotional Boehner Promises New Way Forward for GOP

Nov. 3, 2010— -- As Republicans seized control of the House of Representatives in an electoral wave more forceful than the GOP takeover in 1994, the next likely Speaker of the House, John Boehner, appeared highly emotional late Tuesday night as he set a new way forward under Republican control.

"For far too long, Washington has been doing what's best for Washington -- not what's best for America," Boehner, R-Ohio, said. "Tonight, that begins to change."

The current House minority leader told supporters gathered at a Republican watch party in downtown Washington that Americans voted Tuesday to demand a new way forward in American politics.

"The people's priorities will be our priorities. The people's agenda will be our agenda. This is our pledge to America, this is our pledge to you!" Boehner exclaimed. "It's clear who the winners are tonight, and that's the American people. Your voice was heard at the ballot box! Your voice!"

Boehner promised that the new Republican majority is prepared to legislate differently than either party has in the past.

"It starts with cutting spending instead of increasing it, reducing the size of government instead of expanding it, reforming the way Congress works and giving government back to the people, and for all those families asking 'where are the jobs?,' it means ending the uncertainty in our economy and helping small businesses get people back to work," Boehner said.

Boehner became emotional as he recalled his own pursuit of the American dream, tears flowing down his face at the podium, and his voice quivering.

"Listen I started out mopping floors, waiting tables, and tending bar at my dad's tavern. I put myself through school working every rotten job there was and every night shift I could find. And I poured my heart and soul into running a small business," Boehner said choking through tears. "When I saw how out-of-touch Washington had become with the core values of this great nation, I put my name forward and ran for office."

Boehner said that despite the historic outcome of the election, now is "not a time for celebration."