Font ResizeWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce, R-NM, was unanimously elected Tuesday as chairman of the House Western Caucus.
The Western Caucus serves as an important voice in policy impacting public land use, environment, energy, agriculture, budget spending, recreation and access. Pearce said he is committed to building upon the rich tradition of the caucus while increasing its influence on and off Capitol Hill. Serving as chairman will allow Pearce to work directly with all members of Congress on issues important to New Mexico and the West.
"I thank my colleagues for the honor of leading this caucus," Pearce stated. "For too long, many members of Congress, the executive branch, and other groups and organizations have chosen to ignore the fundamental principles that are so important to our constitutional liberties. Nothing is more western than private property rights and the ability to work for a living, and these very freedoms have come under fierce attack. As chairman, I will defend the values that are the building blocks of the republic."
