Washington House Democrats

State Rep. Jeff Morris (D-Mount Vernon) received a unanimous vote today in his support as Speaker Pro Tempore of the state House of Representatives during the 2008 Legislative Session. Helping him celebrate his election, Morris’ wife, Jenny, and newborn daughter, Fira, attended the opening day’s festivities and witnessed his acceptance speech standing at his side on the podium.

In his acceptance speech, Morris spoke of the role of parliamentary leaders as the “keepers of the House for the people.” Added Morris, “I will strive to be fair and prudent in holding the decorum of the debate to the expectations developed over the time of democracy.”

The Speaker Pro Tempore presides over floor debate in the state House during the Speaker’s absence and serves as a member of the majority House Democratic leadership team.

The brunt of the workload for the Speaker Pro Tem includes presiding over the House Floor debate – an arduous task that demands steadfast resolve in the face of long hours at the helm of the House floor, as well as a judicious demeanor when the tone of the debate hints at becoming less than civil.

Acknowledging that, Morris, reflected upon the status of Washington State, adding, “Our unique mix of natural resources and innovation economies present these challenges under a very intense time limit that tests the limits of our patience and civility. It is in those times, however, that I ask you to reflect upon the trust and hope that each of you carries as an elected leader in the state.”

In addition to his leadership position as Speaker Pro Tem, Rep. Morris will also serve as a member of the Technology, Energy & Communications committee, which he formerly chaired. He will also serve on the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government & Audit Review, and the House Rules committee, the last stop for bills before passing from the House Floor.