In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, newly elected House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris, R-Md., outlined his focus for the remainder of the year. Harris, who has been a member of the Freedom Caucus since its inception, expressed his determination to tackle two key issues: government funding and the House GOP Conference rules for next year.

As the leader of the ultra-conservative group, Harris praised the efforts of previous chairs in pushing the conservative agenda with Congress and the American people. He emphasized that the ongoing fight would now be centered on controlling spending and defining the rules for the upcoming Congress.

Harris, who was elected to Congress in 2010, assumed the role of Freedom Caucus chairman after Rep. Bob Good, R-Va., stepped down following his primary election loss in June. Known for his low-key approach with reporters on Capitol Hill, Harris is seen as a suitable successor to a group that values maintaining anonymity among its members.

The Freedom Caucus has gained a reputation for challenging House GOP leaders, urging them to adopt more conservative policies. Despite this reputation, Harris commended Speaker Mike Johnson's leadership in the upcoming government funding vote, scheduled for Wednesday. The vote will include a Freedom Caucus-backed plan, featuring a six-month extension of this year's federal funds through a continuing resolution (CR), allowing lawmakers more time to prioritize fiscal year 2025. The plan also includes a provision requiring proof of citizenship during the voter registration process, known as the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.

Harris expressed admiration for Speaker Johnson's unexpected move, stating that most people would not have believed a month ago that Johnson would bring a six-month CR to the floor, combined with the SAVE Act. However, Democrats in the Senate and the White House have already voiced objections to the legislation.

When asked about conservatives' ability to ensure Johnson adheres to the plan, Harris refrained from providing specifics, emphasizing that the approach would be determined if the plan fails. He did encourage GOP critics to give the bill a "second look" before the vote, highlighting the signal it would send to the American people regarding illegal voting.

Regarding the House GOP Conference rules, which are expected to be the focus of end-of-year leadership elections, Harris did not disclose specific changes he would advocate for. He mentioned that fellow members of the Freedom Caucus would play an instrumental role in determining these changes, indicating that their input is crucial.

Looking ahead, Harris expressed hope for a Republican majority in the coming year, believing that it would not only adopt and endorse the changes made this term but also consider additional modifications. These discussions will be held over the next two months, shaping the future policies of the House GOP Conference.

As Andy Harris assumes the role of House Freedom Caucus Chairman, his determination to address government funding and shape the House GOP Conference rules sets the tone for the Caucus's priorities in the months to come. His focus on fiscal responsibility and conservative policy push reflects the ongoing battle within the Republican Party to define its agenda and appeal to its base.