By Associated Press
Washington, DC – Incoming U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California announced Tuesday that Alabama Democratic Representative Artur Davis of Birmingham has won a coveted seat on the House Ways and Means Committee. The appointment is a promotion for the congressman, who is seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party and is considering a run for the Senate in 2008. Ways and Means is among the most powerful committees in the House, writing the nation's tax and trade policies while also overseeing high-profile issues such as Medicare and Social Security. Davis, who is entering his third term, benefited from a decision by party leaders not to return Louisiana Democrat William Jefferson to the committee. Davis' appointment was approved by a Democratic steering committee and must be ratified by the full Democratic caucus. Davis has previously served on the Budget Committee and Financial Services Committee.
(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)