ASA Welcomes 114th Congress

On January 6, newly-elected members of the 114^th Congress were sworn into office with the oath of office.  In the new Congress, which will encompass 2015 and 2016, Republican have a majority of seats in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.  Congressman John Boehner (R-OH) was reelected as Speaker of the House and Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) claimed his new position as Senate Majority Leader.

“Congratulations to all members of the 114^th Congress, especially the new members beginning their service as federal elected officials” said J.P. Abenstein, M.S.E.E., M.D, President of the American Society of Anesthesiologists.  “We are proud to partner with members of Congress, both new and reelected, to ensure patients have access to safe, high quality, physician-led care. Physician anesthesiologists like myself look forward to working with these elected officials to address the challenges in our health care system, and the many important issues facing patients, and their families.”

An overview of the 114^th Congress:

• In the House of Representatives, Republicans increased their majority to 246 seats.  There are 188 Democrats and one vacancy.
• In the Senate, Republicans gained control of the chamber with 54 seats. There are 44 Democrats and 2 Independents who caucus with Democrats.
• Congressman Andy Harris, M.D., continues to serve as the first anesthesiologist elected to the House of Representatives.
• There are 14 physicians serving in the House and 3 in the Senate for a total of 17 physicians in Congress.
• In the House, there are 84 women and 350 men.