Today, the House of Representatives met for the first day of the 115^th Congress. In doing so, all Members were sworn in and the rules of the House were adopted. These rules outline the procedures the House will follow for the next two years (the entire 115^th Congress). Rep. John R. Carter (R-TX-31) voted to adopt these rules, that did not include a controversial measure that would have made changes to the Office of Congressional Ethics.

“I opposed the Goodlatte amendment during our Republican Conference meeting, but it was approved above my objections. I am happy to announce that earlier today my colleagues agreed with my concerns, and House Republicans removed the amendment from the rules package. As a former Judge I do believe reform of the Office of Congressional Ethics is warranted to ensure proper due process protections. I believe reform will best be done in a transparent and bipartisan manner. Now is the time to get to work doing the job we were elected to do for the American people. House Republicans have a bold, positive agenda that focuses on the needs of the American people. I know we have an incredible opportunity under a Trump Administration to put our nation back on track, and that should be our immediate focus during the start of the 115^th Congress.”

Rep. Carter represents Texas District 31, which includes Fort Hood, the largest active duty armored military installation in the free world. He serves as Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, co-chairman of the House Army Caucus, is on the Subcommittee for Commerce, Justice and Science and the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.