McCollum wins seat on key panel

12/14/2006

The Minnesota Democrat will replace the retiring Rep. Martin Sabo on one of the most important House panels.


By Rob Hotakainen,
Star Tribune
Last update: December 13, 2006 – 9:07 PM


WASHINGTON - Democratic Rep. Betty McCollum won a seat on the House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, ensuring that Minnesota will continue to have a representative on the powerful money panel in the new Congress.
McCollum, who was elected in 2000, will replace Democratic Rep. Martin Sabo, a long-time member of the committee who is retiring. McCollum had lobbied for a seat on the committee since Sabo announced his plans early this year.


"I'm pretty excited," said McCollum, who's likely to give up her seats on the education and international relations committees.


McCollum, a former teacher, said she remains passionate about education policy and wants to work to get more funding for schools.


"I've worked on the policy, and I'm going to continue to work on the policy, but there's nothing like being in the room advocating for the policy when it comes to finance time," she said.


Under House rules, the Appropriations Committee is considered an "exclusive" panel, meaning members who serve on it are not allowed to serve on any others, unless they get special permission.


McCollum said she would consider keeping her seats on the education and international relations committees if the opportunity arises, but she said it will depend on how many slots are available.


In the meantime, she's expecting to work longer hours next year with other members of the Appropriations Committee.


"Sometimes they don't go home on the weekends," she said. "They work straight through."