Scalise taps Rep. Drew Ferguson to serve as House GOP deputy whip

House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) announced Tuesday that he would appoint Rep. Drew Ferguson (R-Ga.) to succeed Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) as chief deputy whip for the House Republican conference next year.

Ferguson will assist Scalise in counting votes and coordinating on legislation within the conference in the 116th Congress. Chief deputy whip is the highest-ranking appointed position in the lower chamber. 

“Drew has proven himself to be a tireless worker, and an invaluable member of my whip team this Congress, helping us secure the votes for major conservative victories like our tax cuts bill,” Scalise said in a statement.{mosads}

“Drew is respected and well liked, and has built relationships across the entire spectrum of our Conference. He is a strong advocate for the conservative principles that House Republicans stand for, and his fighting spirit will be a huge asset to us as we work to stop the radical, leftist agenda being promoted by House Democrats.”

Ferguson, who was just reelected to a second term in the House, said he was honored to be chosen for the role.

“Steve is more than a conservative leader, he is an inspiration for all Americans,” he said of Scalise. “I look forward to the challenges, responsibilities and opportunities ahead, and I am excited to help lead the GOP Conference in this new role.”