Via the AP:
The newest member of Congress drew boos from some in his own Republican caucus on Wednesday as he called for withholding lawmakers’ pay unless they approve a balanced budget.
Rep. Greg Gianforte of Montana, who was sworn in Wednesday, immediately made waves as he pledged to “drain the swamp” in his initial speech to Congress, an echo of President Donald Trump’s campaign promise. The 56-year-old former software executive earned national notoriety last month after he body-slammed a reporter who had questioned him about the GOP health care bill.
In his speech Wednesday to a crowded House chamber, Gianforte also called for term limits and a ban on lobbying by former members of Congress. Boos from the Republican side were heard as Gianforte spoke about members’ salaries, and an audible buzz grew louder as he concluded his brief remarks.
In an interview later, Gianforte said he was excited to serve in Congress and “humbled and honored.”
While his arrest last month on assault charges made national and even international news, Gianforte said he was greeted “very warmly” by colleagues in both parties.
“I am really excited to be sworn in today and I’m ready to go to work,” he said.