JUNEAU — U.S. Rep. Don Young will miss Tuesday's vote for House speaker due to a death in his family.
Young spokesman Matt Shuckerow said Young's brother, 84-year-old Russell Young of Meridian, California, has died, and the congressman will spend time with family ahead of a memorial service in the Sacramento area.
Shuckerow said Don Young, 81, will be sworn in upon his return to Washington.
Young has served in Congress since 1973. He was re-elected in November.
Shuckerow said by email that Young doesn't believe Rep. John Boehner's position as speaker is in any jeopardy. Shuckerow said Young believes Boehner is the most appropriate choice to unite House Republicans.