California Has Strong Showing In New Congress

Representative David Dreier says California has the most powerful congressional delegation in its history

The San Dimas Republican will remain chairman of the House Rules Committee. Five California Republicans will lead House committees in the new Congress, including the panels that set policy on defense and the environment. The state€™s Republican delegation also includes the chairman of the defense appropriations subcommittee and a member of the Republican leadership.

The number of committee chairmen is a reflection of California Republicans´ steady rise in seniority in Congress, although one new chairman defeated several more senior colleagues. Their ascension comes at a time when Democrats hold a significant edge in elected offices in the state.