WASHINGTON (Dec. 3, 2020) – The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) today released the following statement in response to Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) being selected as Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee:

“Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers is a lifetime supporter of the cattle industry and it is no surprise that her hard work and leadership has propelled her to this historic role on the Energy and Commerce Committee,” said NCBA Vice President Of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “Cattle producers are happy to see her take this position head on – her understanding of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and free enterprise will serve her well as Ranking Member and we are eager to work with her in the 117th Congress.”

“Ranchers across the West offer their hearty congratulations to Rep. McMorris Rodgers on being selected as the next lead Republican on the Committee,” said PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “Her background in agriculture means that she understands the challenges producers face on a daily basis, and this new role gives her a prime opportunity to lead the development of meaningful solutions. Throughout her career, McMorris Rodgers has consistently demonstrated her leadership in public land and water issues, and PLC looks forward to work with her in this new role.”