News Summary

U.S. Rep.-elect Steve Austria, R-Beavercreek, was named president of the Republican's freshman class on Thursday, Nov. 20.

Chosen by a vote of his fellow freshmen, he will likely serve on the Republican Steering Committee, helping to determine each representative's committee assignments.

"I'm excited to be part of a very talented and focused freshman class, which has many good ideas to address the problems we face," Austria said in a statement. "The elections are over and our work in Congress has already begun."

Michael Barone, a resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, said the position is a good way to get more exposure as an incoming congressman.

"It's a chance to show your stuff," he said.

On Nov. 4, Austria beat out Democratic candidate Sharen Neuhardt with 58 percent of the vote. He will replace Rep. Dave Hobson, R-Springfield, who is retiring after nine terms.

His district, Ohio's seventh, includes Springfield and a series of suburbs south of Columbus.

Republicans suffered a bruising defeat on election day this year, losing more than 20 seats in the House. Among new members, Democrats outnumber Republicans 31 to 19.

House Minority Leader John Boehner, who represents Ohio's 8th District, praised Austria in a statement.

"Steve's work in the Ohio legislature on tax and tort reform will be valuable as House Republicans craft solutions to the serious challenges facing our nation," he said. "Steve's constituents in Ohio's 7th Congressional District will be well served through this leadership role."