January 5, 2011, 108 newly elected members of the United States Congress took the oath of office (the oath is viewable here) and became official members of the 112th Congress. Also today, John Boehner (R-OH) was elected Speaker of the House. “We congratulate all of the new members of Congress.” Mark A. Warner, M.D., President of the American Society of Anesthesiologists said. “All of us face a changing health care landscape, and there is concern amongst anesthesiologists that our patients’ best interests could be hurt in the transitions that will occur. We look forward to working with both new and old members of Congress to ensure patients receive high quality safe physician-led care.”

Facts on the 112th Congress:
    In the House, there are 96 newly elected members - 87 Republicans and 9 Democrats.
    In the Senate, there are 12 newly elected members – 9 Republicans and 3 Democrats.
    In the House, there are 242 Republicans and 193 Democrats. 
    In the Senate, there are 51 Democrats, 47 Republicans, and 2 Independents who caucus with the Democrats.  
    Andy Harris, M.D. became the first anesthesiologist ever to serve in the House of Representatives.
    There are 8 newly elected physicians in Congress bringing the total to 21 physicians. 
    In the House, there are 363 men and 72 women.
    52% of the members of the House have advanced degrees.

ASA has developed a web page with information on the leadership and composition of the new Congress. Click here to view it.