Speaker of the House or Assembly

The Speaker of the House is J. Dennis Hastert (R-IL). Speaker of the House or Assembly. The speaker is the principal leader of the House or Assembly. The speaker typically will (1) preside over the daily sessions of the Senate, (2) preserve order in the chamber, (3) state parliamentary motions, (4) rule on parliamentary questions, (4) appoint committee chairs and members, (5) refer bills to committee, (6) sign legislation, writs and warrants and (7) act as the official spokesman for the House or …

…assisted by a Deputy Whip, principally consist of counting votes and persuading Members to support the Democratic Caucus position on votes. Senate Minority Whip is Don Nickles (R-OK) Senate Minority Whip. The Senate Minority Whip is the second ranking leadership position for the minority party. The responsibilities of the Minority Whip, who is assisted by one or more Deputy Whips, principally consist of counting votes and persuading Members to support the party's position on votes.