Washington—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on the election by the House Democratic Caucus of Representative Gregory W. Meeks of New York to be the committee’s next Chairman:

“I congratulate my dear friend and fellow New Yorker Greg Meeks on his election as the next chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Serving many years together on the committee, I’ve seen up close Greg’s deep knowledge of foreign policy issues, his profound commitment to an American foreign policy rooted in our values, and his understanding of the importance of Congress’s role in these matters. The Democratic Caucus chose Chairman-elect Meeks as the best leader to stand up for its members’ priorities. I’m confident that he will also carry forward the committee’s tradition of legislating and oversight driven by what’s best for American interests, not partisan gain. As my time as Chairman comes to an end, I’m glad to be leaving the gavel in such good hands.

“I also want to commend Representatives Sherman and Castro for their leadership and service on the committee. I hope it continues in the 117th Congress.”

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