New Women in Congress Appointed to High Profile Committees

August 24, 2011

Two Democratic women who won their special elections recently have been appointed to high profile committees.

Congresswoman Janice Hahn (D-California) received her first committee assignment, earning a seat on the powerful House Committee on Homeland Security. The Committee is charged with protecting the American people and critical infrastructure from a possible terrorist attack, and improving the nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters.  The Committee also provides Congressional oversight of the Department of Homeland Security and its subsidiary agencies, such as the United States Secret Service and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Congresswoman Hahn released the following statement, “Homeland Security is a excellent place for me to tackle the issues that matter to my district. We need to be doing more to protect our families and the engines of economic growth in our area like LAX and the Port of Los Angeles. I’m eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work preparing and protecting the people of my community and our nation.”

Congresswoman Kathy Hochul (D-New York) was appointed to the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) for the duration of the 112th Congress.

“I am honored to join the House Armed Services Committee and work to help the brave men and women of our Armed Forces,” said Congresswoman Hochul.  “The thousands of valiant Americans who serve our country every day deserve Representatives that will fight to give them the proper resources needed to do their jobs accurately, but more importantly, safely.  I also look forward to reaching out and helping all of our veterans, who have done so much to help our great nation.”

“As a Member of Congress from a region with thousands and thousands of Armed Service men and women, Congresswoman Hochul will bring a perspective that fits well with the House Armed Services Committee,” said Ranking Member Adam Smith.  “I know Kathy will be a strong advocate for all of our men and women in uniform and will ensure that each of them have the tools and resources needed to ensure America’s safety and security.  I look forward to working with her.”