The Hill News

Less than 12 hours after Republicans regained control of the House, GOP lawmakers began tossing their hats into the ring for the leadership positions.

GOP Conference Chairman Mike Pence's announcement to not seek his current position in the next Congress opened the doors for ambitious GOP rank-and-file to step forward and enter the race.

Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas) was the first to announce his intention to succeed Pence, his good friend and close political ally.

“My vision for Conference is a simple one: unity, empowerment and service. Over the next two weeks, I will share that vision with my colleagues and over 60 new Republican members-elect and humbly seek their support," Hensarling wrote in a statement released moments after news broke that Pence intended to leave the door open for running for higher office.

Others who have discussed the opportunity to become the party's next spokesman include freshman Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah! ), Vice-Chairwoman Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (R-Wash.), Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tea Party darling Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.).