What role does the speaker of the house play? serves as the presiding officer of the house; presides over the proceedings and keeps order. presides over the proceedings of the house; as the president is not a member of the senate he or she does not have the usual member duties and may not vote expect to break a tie. assists the floor leaders and serves as liaison between the party’s leadership and its members. presides over every house committee and appoints all committee members, nothing can be accomplished without the speaker’s say.