CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Del. Tim Armstead is set to make history Wednesday when he becomes the first Republican to be elected as House of Delegates speaker since 1929.
“We feel very much ready to start the process and ready to get to work for the people of West Virginia, but we’re also very honored that we’ve been given this opportunity and I’m very honored to be speaker,” Armstead said.
The Kanawha County native, who grew up in Braxton County, is in the position because Republicans swept through the November General Election. Heading into the vote Democrats held a 53-47 edge in House but now Republicans have a 64-36 majority.
Armstead becomes the first Republican speaker since the 1929-1931 term of Ohio County Delegate J. William Cummins. Armstead has served under three Democrat speakers during his 16 years in the House and he’s spoken with all three in recent weeks.
“I will set my own tone. I will certainly be my own person, my own man. But I welcome that advice and that input that was shared,” he said.
Armstead has been minority leader for last eight years but realizes the demands on him as speaker will be significantly increased. He said he’s ready and believes he’s formulated a good team that will keep him balanced.
“I think you surround yourself with people who are not afraid to tell you, if in fact, you get off course. You have people you trust who stand with you and work with you,” he said.
The 60-day session begins at noon Wednesday. One of the first orders of business will be the election of speaker. Armstead will be nominated and deliver a speech that he said would focus on the future of West Virginia.