Thompson Appointed to Powerful Committee Post

Congressman Mike Thompson (D-North Coast) has secured a seat on the powerful Ways and Means Committee. Thompson was appointed to the post this morning by a vote of his legislative peers at the nation's Capitol. The Committee on Ways Means ranks as one of the oldest and most prestigious standing committees in the House of Representatives. It has long been recognized as the most powerful committee on Capitol Hill and carries jurisdiction over all major legislative matters including Social Security, Medicare, health care financing, international trade and tax reform. Established in 1789, its members have included 8 future U.S. Presidents, 4 future Supreme Court Justices, 34 Cabinet members and 21 future Speakers of the House of Representatives. Thompson called it an honor to be selected to the post after serving only 3 terms in Congress. “I am honored to serve on such a prestigious and powerful committee that will be in the middle of many of today's most heated and consequential policy decisions. My top priorities include ensuring that Social Security and Medicare are not jeopardized by irresponsible stock market schemes, improving the accessibility of quality health care in rural areas and assisting American small businesses through common sense tax and trade policies.” "I'm proud to name Mike Thompson to the Ways and Means Committee," House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi said. "Californians -- such as our dear friend Bob Matsui -- have a long and distinguished history on the Ways and Means Committee. Mike has the talent and experience to successfully build on this impressive legacy. He will be a vital voice on the Committee for pay as you go spending and fiscal responsibility." # # #