A whip in the United States House of Representatives manages his or her party's legislative program on the House floor. The Whip keeps track of all legislation and ensures that all party members are present when important measures are to be voted upon.

[edit] Historical origins

The role of the Whip can be traced back to the Parliament of the United Kingdom which adopted the term Whip from the fox-hunting position, ‘whipper-in,’ or the person who kept the fox hounds focused on their mission. In Congress, the Whip’s job is to count votes and ‘whip’ up support for legislation and keep members focused on the mission. While the formal House Whip positions were established in the late 19th century, the informal "vote counting" functions have been conducted since the earliest days of the United States House - an informal role first performed by James Madison.

The Republican Party created the position of Whip in 1897. The first Whip position was created by Speaker Thomas B. Reed, who appointed James A. Tawney of Minnesota to keep track of the whereabouts of Republican Party Members. The Democrats set up their whip structure and types of whips around 1901.

[edit] Current role

The Majority Whip is an elected member of the majority party who assists the Speaker of the House and the Majority Leader to coordinate ideas on and garner support for proposed legislation. This position, unlike Speaker of the House, is not mandated by the Constitution.

The Minority Whip is a member of the minority party who assists the Minority Leader in coordinating the party caucus in its responses to legislation and other matters. However, the United States House of Representatives does not use the term "Minority Whip." The House of Representatives uses the terms "Republican Whip" or "Democratic Whip" depending on the Minority Party.

[edit] Current whips

The House Majority Whip of the 111th United States Congress is Rep. James E. Clyburn (D., South Carolina)

The House Minority Whip of the 111th United States Congress is Rep. Eric I. Cantor (R., Virginia)

[edit] List of party whips, 1897–present

(Names in Bold indicate Majority)

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