WASHINGTON, DC — Wednesday, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) announced that he has been selected to join the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 118^th Congress. The committee, first created in 1795, is the oldest in the U.S. House of Representatives and has broad jurisdiction over energy, health care, environment, technology, data privacy and security, broadband, and much more.

Congressman Pfluger is the first West Texan to serve on the Energy and Commerce Committee in nearly half a century and the first Member to represent Midland and Odessa on the committee.

Rep. Pfluger released a video announcing his committee assignment. Watch the video here and read a full transcript below:

“Texas-11, this is Congressman August Pfluger.

“I’m coming to you with some great news, as I just learned that I have been chosen for the powerful Energy & Commerce Committee.

“Since day one, I have been fighting for energy security and American energy dominance.

“Representing the hardworking men and women in the Permian Basin, the most prolific oil and gas-producing region in the world, is an incredible honor. Being appointed to the Energy and Commerce Committee means that Midland and Odessa have a voice and an advocate on the very Committee tasked with securing our Nation’s energy supply.

“In addition to the critical energy responsibilities, this committee will be part of the solution for nearly every major issue currently facing our Nation. This includes holding Big Tech accountable and ensuring our rural communities have the quality health care they deserve.

“I am committed to leveraging my position on the committee to lower costs for American families, fight for free speech, and preserve the free market under the leadership of Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers.

“Thank you all. Let’s get to work.”

Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers released the following statement upon Pfluger’s election to the Committee: “I am excited and proud to welcome Rep. Pfluger to the House Energy and Commerce Committee. We will be at the forefront of House Republicans’ efforts to restore public trust in representative government. Americans have elected us to hold the line against Biden’s agenda. They want a different path, one that promotes free markets, innovation, free speech, and individual freedom. We stand ready to plow the hard ground necessary to legislate, hold the Biden administration accountable, and restore American leadership.”