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Pallone to Seek Helm of House Energy and Commerce Committee

February 3, 2014

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. released the following statement today announcing his candidacy to become leading Democrat on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce:

“I am announcing today that I will seek the opportunity to lead the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Though the retirement of my good friend and mentor, Congressman Henry Waxman will be a great loss for this body, I am committed to continuing the kind of leadership that both he and his predecessor, Congressman John Dingell, used to help this Committee produce some of the most important legislation in our nation’s history. That’s why upon learning of Congressman Waxman’s plans to retire from the House, I began the process of calling my colleagues to let them know of my intentions.

“For over 20 years, I have remained deeply committed to advancing the goals of our great Committee on which I have had the honor of serving as the Chair or Ranking Member of three of our six Subcommittees. As the person tasked with developing the Democratic Caucus’ message on the House Floor, I believe I would be the most effective voice to lead the Committee toward a successful future.

“Looking forward to the 114th Congress, the Energy and Commerce Committee will be as active as it has ever been as we address some of the nation’s most pressing issues, which is why having a leader with strong relationships on both sides of the aisle will be crucial to moving forward a meaningful agenda that will improve the health, safety and prosperity of Americans. Even in the often divided climate of the last several years, I have worked to find common ground with my colleagues to get things done because I believe that our government can still do good things that will help Americans and make our nation even stronger. I am eager for the opportunity to lead the Energy and Commerce Committee in the fights ahead as we continue our work to rebuild our economy and create new opportunities for all Americans.”