Committee Statements

In addition to adopting Committee rules and subcommittee assignments, we’re also welcoming new members to the panel today. On our side of the aisle, it is my pleasure to introduce five dynamic new members.

Representative Brett Guthrie from the 2^nd District of Kentucky brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Committee, from his time as a businessman to his work in the Kentucky State Senate. Representative Guthrie is prepared to take on a leadership role here at the Committee, and that’s why he’ll be serving as the senior Republican on the Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness Subcommittee.

Representative Bill Cassidy serves the 6^th District of Louisiana. As a physician, Representative Cassidy will be a valuable addition to the debate about health care access; as the father of three children in public school, he will also have much to contribute to our discussions about education reform.

I’m also pleased to welcome a pair of fellow Californians to the Committee. Representative Tom McClintock comes to us from the 4^th District of California and brings extensive experience to the Committee from his time in the California Assembly and, most recently, the California Senate. Representative McClintock is a staunch advocate for individual freedom, and his voice will be an important one on both education and labor issues.

Representative Duncan Hunter is our other Californian, and probably a new face with a familiar name for many of you. Representative Hunter of course shares his name with his father, who previously served in California’s 52^nd District. This Representative Hunter is a leader in his own right, working as a businessman and serving his nation in the United States Marine Corps. He’s a great addition to this Committee.

Finally, we have Representative Phil Roe from the 1^st District of Tennessee. Representative Roe is also a physician, and brings governing experience along with his health care expertise. Dr. Roe served on the Johnson City Board of Commissioners before coming to Congress, most recently as mayor. His firsthand experience with the issues facing our local communities make him uniquely situated to serve on this Committee.

Once again, I want to welcome all the new members, on both sides of the aisle, to this important Committee. I look forward to serving with each of you and tackling the tough issues together.

 

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