New House Speaker Kevin McCarthy officially opened the 118th Congress early Saturday morning, after he won over 20 Republicans who initially did not support his speakership and defected their votes to other members.
"I hope one thing is clear after this week: I will never give up. I will never give up for you, the American people. And I will never give up on keeping our Commitment to America." McCarthy said.
"As Speaker of the House, my ultimate responsibility is not to my party, my conference, or even our Congress. My responsibility – our responsibility – is to our country," he added. "Two months ago, you voted for a new direction for our country. You embraced our Commitment to America. And now, we are going to keep our commitment to you."
"To Leader Jeffries", he said, "there will be times we will agree and many times we will differ. I promise that our debates will be passionate, but never personal. And now the hard work begins. What we do here today, next week, next month, and next year will set the tone for everything that follows."
"We will also address America’s long-term challenges: the debt and the Chinese Communist Party. Congress must speak with one voice on both of these issues," McCarthy said.
"Our system is built on checks and balances. It’s time for us to be the check and provide some balance to the President’s policies," he added. "There is nothing more important than making it possible for American families to live and enjoy the lives they deserve."
"My friends – this chamber is now fully open for all Americans," he said.
"Our nation is worth fighting for", he concluded, "Our rights are worth fighting for. Our dreams are worth fighting for. Our future is worth fighting for."