ITHACA, NY (WSKG) - Republican Congressman Tom Reed confirmed on Monday that he might vote for Democrat Nancy Pelosi for Speaker of the House. To do so, she would need to agree to some changes he supports.
Reed represents New York’s 23rd congressional district which stretches across the Southern Tier from Owego to Jamestown. He co-chairs a bi-partisan congressional group called the Problem Solvers Caucus. They want to change how legislation gets to a vote in the House.
"Far too long,the institution has become a top down, one person, Speaker driven organization where deals are being struck in closed rooms," Reed said. "Legislation is being drafted at the last minute. It’s time for us to use this opportunity of a new speak candidacy to reform these rules.”
The Republican said he’s confident that Democrats in his caucus will continue to support the changes even if it means voting against Pelosi for Speaker.
Over the weekend, President Trump tweeted support for Pelosi as speaker. He said he knew of Republicans that would support her and tagged Reed in the tweet. Reed wouldn't comment on any potential conversation with the president, saying he prefers to keep those private.
Pelosi responded that she expects to be elected Speaker with Democratic votes. A group of 16 Democrats are pushing for a change in leadership, including Anthony Brindisi. He currently leads in his election bid in NY-22 by about 3,000 votes over Republican Congresswoman Claudia Tenney.