Committee Assignments

Committee on Rules and Administration, Chairman

The Senate Committee on Rules and Administration oversees and will play a fundamental role in the 111th Congress as the Democratic agenda will include improving the election process, protecting voting rights, strengthening campaign finance law, and providing greater transparency in our political process. Additionally, any legislation related to ethics and lobbying reform must pass through the Committee. The Committee also has oversight authority over various government institutions and the Smithsonian. Additionally, the Committee has a historical place in the institution of the Senate, since it oversees all Senate rules and procedures and qualifications and credentials of Senators.
Rules Committee Official Website

Joint Economic Committee, Vice-Chairman

The Joint Economic Committee (JEC) is a bicameral Congressional Committee composed of ten members from each the Senate and the House of Representatives. There are twelve Democrats and eight Republicans on the Committee. The JEC was established by the Employment Act of 1946 (Public Law 304). Its main purpose is to make a continuing study of matters relating to the US economy. The Committee holds hearings, performs research and advises Members of Congress.
Joint Economic Committee Official Website

Senate Judiciary Committee
Subcommittee on Immigration, Border Security and Citizenship, Chair
Subcommittee on Administrative Oversight and the Courts
Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights
Subcommittee on Crime and Drugs
Subcommittee on Terrorism, Technology and Homeland Security

The Committee on the Judiciary, one of the oldest and most powerful in the Senate, oversees federal law enforcement, all federal courts, and key policy areas including anti-terrorism measures, copyright and patent law, immigration policy, and bankruptcy protection. The Committee has review power over all nominations for life-time judicial appointments, including those to the Supreme Court, as well as to key positions in the Department of Justice, including the Attorney General and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Judiciary Committee Official Website

Senate Finance Committee
Subcommittee on Healthcare
Subcommittee on Social Security, Pensions, and Family Policy
Subcommittee on Taxation, IRS Oversight, and Long-Term Growth

The Senate Finance Committee is the committee of jurisdiction for many issues vital to the U.S. economy. The Finance Committee writes legislation related to the U.S tax code and tax policy; the Internal Revenue Service; trade issues, such as international trade agreements, Trade Adjustment Assistance for workers, and tariffs and duties; many issues related to private and private pension plans, including 401(k) plans and IRAs; and unemployment insurance. The Finance Committee is also the committee that works on issues related to Social Security, including disability and survivors’ payments.
Finance Committee Official Website

Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee
Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation and Community Development
Subcommittee on Financial Institutions
Subcommittee on Securities, Insurance and Investment

The Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs oversees the United States’ financial system and institutions, monetary policy, housing, community development and transit programs. The committee also works to protect consumers by focusing on issues such as credit card interest rates and disclosure, low income housing and shareholders rights.
Banking Committee Official Website