WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) was sworn in for his second term in the U.S. House of Representatives on Sunday January 3rd. Congressman Gooden's first term voting record was one of the most conservative among House Republicans, reflecting his priorities to end illegal immigration, defend the right to bear arms, and fight for the America First agenda.

The first order of business for the 117th Congress was to vote on the next Speaker of the House. Congressman Gooden joined 208 of his Republican colleagues in voting for Kevin McCarthy to be speaker, but Nancy Pelosi won the contest by securing 216 votes from House Democrats.

Congressman Gooden issued the following statement after casting his vote:

Congressman Gooden - "It is my honor to serve the people of Texas' Fifth District. I was proud to vote for Kevin McCarthy to be the next speaker. He has fought tirelessly to defend our freedoms from the radical, socialist ideas taking hold of the Democratic Party. The sooner we take the speaker's gavel from Nancy Pelosi the better."