Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.) has been elected chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, according to an announcement made on September 18. Harris expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Chairman and stated his commitment to securing the Southern Border, addressing government spending, and protecting constitutional freedoms in the House of Representatives.
Harris has represented Maryland’s First Congressional District since 2011 and is currently the only GOP congressman from Maryland. He takes over as chairman from Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.), who stepped down after losing his primary election but could have continued until January 3, 2025.
Currently, Congress is working to avoid a government shutdown by voting on a continuing resolution (CR) that would fund the government at current spending levels until March 30, 2025. However, this measure may face opposition due to a provision that would prohibit noncitizens from voting. Some members also object to the CR for fiscal reasons.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) emphasized the importance of responsibly funding the federal government and ensuring election security in a social media post on September 17. He urged colleagues to support a vote on the six-month CR with the SAVE Act attached, which aims to prevent non-American citizens from participating in American elections.
Before serving in Congress, Harris was a member of the Maryland Senate from 1999 to 2011. He also worked as an anesthesiologist and served in the U.S. Navy during the Gulf War.
