Rep. O’Malley named Republican deputy whip in Michigan House

Rep. Jack O’Malley

Rep. O’Malley named Republican deputy whip in Michigan House

LANSING — State Rep. Jack O’Malley, of Lake Ann, will assume majority caucus deputy whip responsibilities in the Michigan House after Republican legislators on Thursday selected him to the position for the 2021-22 legislative term. O’Malley represents the 101st district which includes Mason, Manistee, Benzie, and Leelanau counties. He was just re-elected to his second term in a landslide victory (60.6% vs. 39.4%) over Democrat opponent Beth McGill-Rizer of Ludington. 

The majority caucus whip is a job of critical importance in communicating key information among legislators. O’Malley, along with majority whip Andrea Schroeder, of Oakland County’s Independence Township, will inform colleagues about important issues and decisions coming up on the House floor to continue moving Michigan forward. He will also serve as a liaison between caucus leaders and other members, tracking votes and assisting legislators with policy-related questions.

“This job gives me the ability to put the thoughts and concerns of people in Benzie, Leelanau, Manistee and Mason counties even more at the forefront in Michigan as we collectively craft a way forward over the next two years,” O’Malley said. “I’m excited for this opportunity as we continue to work to get things done for the people.”

O’Malley’s work on the Joint Select Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic has helped give people and small business owners throughout Michigan a voice as COVID-19 and executive orders from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer have impacted lives and livelihoods. The first-term legislator also has fought to improve access to child care, deliver record school funding, lower auto insurance rates and implement a safe and sensible re-opening of Michigan’s economy as the state deals with the COVID-19 pandemic.

O’Malley currently chairs the House Transportation Committee, where he has been pivotal in advancing measures that provide more flexibility for local road repairs. He also currently serves on House committees dedicated to Education, Energy and Tax Policy. O’Malley will continue to serve on House committees in the coming legislative session, in addition to the deputy whip position.

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