Florida Republican congressman-elect Ryan Elijah says he plans to focus on fraud, consumer protection and inflation when he arrives in Washington, while seeking areas where Republicans and Democrats can work together.
Elijah, a former sports broadcaster in Central Florida, made the comments as federal programs face increased scrutiny over fraud and misuse of taxpayer funds.
He said he has long been interested in consumer protection and believes Washington could do more to combat fraud. Elijah added that he hopes lawmakers in both parties will be willing to protect consumers and curb wasteful spending.
Elijah defeated Rep. Cory Mills in the Republican primary in August. He said voters made clear in the midterm elections that they want change, lower inflation and some relief in their daily lives.
He also argued that representatives serve everyone in their districts, not just the people who voted for them. In his view, bipartisan solutions are important to rebuilding trust and accountability in Washington.
Elijah said Congress should return to a stronger sense of public service, criticizing lawmakers who use their positions for personal gain. He supports restricting members of Congress from trading stocks while serving on committees, saying lawmakers and people back home should be held to the same standards.
He hopes to serve on the House Energy and Commerce Committee or the House Financial Services Committee, where he could work on consumer protection and financial oversight. He is also interested in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, which he said could help bring projects to his district.
Elijah said his district has significant room to grow and will need infrastructure improvements. He also urged Republicans, who lost control of Congress in the midterms, to stay united and preserve the progress they have made while pursuing their priorities in a divided government.
Elijah is expected to take office in January as a member of the 120th Congress.
