Race heats up for top GOP post on powerful House Commerce Committee

Rep Greg Walden (R-OR) is retiring, opening up the top Republican spot on the House Commerce Committee. Reps. Michael Burgess (R-TX), a doctor and the most senior Republican on the panel, and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) are viewed as the frontrunners. Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) is seen as a dark horse. The race is heating up. All three lawmakers have met multiple times with members of the Republican Steering Committee — which is tasked with determining committee posts — to tout their credentials for a coveted position on a panel that oversees a broad number of policy areas ranging from health care to energy to telecommunications. Another factor in the decision-making process will be their fundraising efforts, though all have shown an ability to bring in large amounts of cash for the party.