From staff reports
U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, R-16th District, introduced a resolution that would allow the House to hold an election of U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., as Speaker Pro Tempore, according to a news release from Kelly’s office.
McHenry is currently designated as speaker pro tempore as House members consider a new speaker to replace Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., who was removed earlier this month. Currently as speaker pro tempore, McHenry’s powers are limited.
The election of McHenry, the release said, would allow the House to move critical legislation, including appropriations bills, to the floor for full consideration by the Nov. 17 deadline. Kelly said by electing McHenry, the House “will be able to continue the work that the American people sent us here to do while we continue searching for a speaker of the House.”