WASHINGTON, D.C. – The competition to become the top Republican on the House Energy and Commerce Committee is heating up, with at least two members of Congress vying for the position. Representatives Brett Guthrie of Kentucky and Bob Latta of Ohio have both expressed their interest in replacing outgoing chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington, who announced that she would not seek reelection next year.
Guthrie’s spokesperson, DJ Griffin, confirmed that the lawmaker is running to lead the influential committee after Rodgers retires. Meanwhile, a source close to Latta also stated that he will run for the top spot, setting the stage for a competitive race within the Republican party.
The Energy and Commerce Committee has broad jurisdiction and oversees policy related to energy, the environment, technology, and health care. With Rodgers and Vice Chair Kelly Armstrong both departing from the committee, the race for their replacements is gaining attention.
It remains uncertain whether the top Republican spot would be a chairship, as that would depend on the outcome of the upcoming House majority elections. If the Democrats were to win, the individual taking Rodgers’s spot would become the panel’s ranking member instead of chair.
Guthrie currently chairs the Health subcommittee, while Latta is at the helm of the subcommittee on Communications and Technology. Both have the experience and knowledge necessary to lead the committee, making the competition for the top spot even more intriguing. As the race progresses, the future direction of the House Energy and Commerce Committee remains uncertain.