As expected, the House Republican Conference formally approved Kevin Brady as the next Ways and Means chairman. The conference on Thursday backed the Steering Committee’s decision to name the 10-term Texan as head of the powerful tax-writing committee. Brady shared his joy on Twitter after winning the Steering Committee’s endorsement.

Honored to lead @WaysandMeansGOP as @HouseGOP & @SpeakerRyan are advancing pro-growth agenda to get US back on track https://t.co/MmEhkTW7Db

— RepKevinBrady (@RepKevinBrady) November 4, 2015

Brady replaces Paul D. Ryan, who gave up the Ways and Means gavel after less than a year to become speaker.  Brady beat Ohio Republican Pat Tiberi to give the Lone Star State its seventh committee chairmanship.  

Rep. Tom Rice, R-S.C., was selected to fill the open slot on Ways and Means.  

Reversal: How Paul Ryan Became Speaker of the House 

   

Related: Brady Set to Replace Ryan as Ways and Means Chairman Brady, Tiberi Face Off Wednesday for Ways and Means Gavel Brady Makes Pitch for Ways and Means Gavel See photos, follies, HOH Hits and Misses and more at Roll Call’s new video site. Get breaking news alerts and more from Roll Call in your inbox or on your iPhone.