Washington D.C. — House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) delivered the following opening remarks at today’s Full Committee Member Day hearing. 

“We are celebrating the rich bipartisan history of the Energy and Commerce Committee.

“For more than 227 years, this Committee has taken on some of the most difficult challenges of the day. 

“We do the hard work and plow the hard ground to legislate and deliver results. 

“It’s the oldest committee in Congress. 

“It was here at the beginning for the very first hopes and dreams in the Promise of America where we have lifted more people out of poverty and led the world in raising the standard of living through free markets, free speech, and individual liberty.” 

“Each of our colleagues who we’ll hear from today has the honor of representing around 750,000 people.

“Just like us, they were duly-elected to serve and are committed to working on ideas to improve people’s lives.

“Today is about listening and learning about what our colleagues are leading on and why these solutions are important in their districts.

"It is an honor to host this Member Day with Ranking Member Pallone, and I'm grateful for his leadership and friendship as we work together to build a brighter future across America."

“To all the members participating today: Thank you! Welcome! 

“I look forward to hearing about your work and legislation.”