House Republicans elect Boehner majority leader

US HOUSE Republicans elected Republican John Boehner of Ohio as their new majority leader yesterday, choosing a self-proclaimed reform candidate to replace indicted Tom DeLay as the party struggles with an ethics scandal.

Mr Boehner said Republicans will “re-dedicate ourselves to dealing with big issues the American people expect us to deal with” - such as national security issues.

Mr Boehner, a veteran of 15 years in Congress, defeated front-runner Roy Blunt 122-109 after lagging behind his rival in a first, inconclusive vote.

Mr Blunt remains the Republican whip.

Mr Boehner campaigned as a candidate of reform, and said his experience as chairman of the House Education and Workforce Committee had demonstrated his ability to pass major legislation.

Mr Blunt had been a stand-in for DeLay, who is charged with campaign finance violations in Texas.