I seem to recall an article I read saying that it was Boehner’s STAFF that notified Webster and Nugent.
But now I can’t find it again.
http://thehill.com/homenews/house/228613-house-elects-boehner-as-speaker-with-x-defections
Nugent said his staff told him of the decision after the vote. He declined further comment, saying he wanted to speak with Boehner.
Related:
http://www.politico.com/story/2015/01/boehner-allies-out-for-revenge-114007.html#ixzz3OFFfOLgt
Boehner and his team are convinced that, despite 25 defections, they have a firmer grip on power than ever. They say their “working majority” — members whom Boehner can work with — is around 220 members.
“We don’t need these fringe guys as much as we did anymore,” said a GOP leadership aide, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We can let them walk on certain bills, and it just won’t matter. That gives us breathing room.”
http://www.nationaljournal.com/congress/gop-tensions-escalate-after-speaker-vote-20150107
Nugent said he has been frustrated that a measure to take on mental health in the criminal justice system and another dealing with veterans have been held up. He also bemoaned the power of some staff over members, he said.
(snip)
Some lawmakers want heads to roll at the staff level. Rep. Andy Harris was incensed, addressing the leadership team in the private conference meeting to tell them it was unacceptable for an anonymous GOP leadership aide to call sitting members of Congress “fringe guys” because they voted against Boehner. Harris’s comment drew thanks from a number of his colleagues.