Following in the footsteps of her predecessor, freshman U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan announced Tuesday that she will serve on the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, which has broad oversight of the country's defense.
Trahan, who emerged with a narrow victory in a crowded Democratic primary field and defeated Republican Rick Green in November to represent the Third District, said she was honored by the appointment.
"There is no greater responsibility for a Member of Congress than to provide for our common defense, and to guarantee that those who wear the uniform of the United States of America are well provided for," Trahan said in a statement. "I look forward to being able to leverage my position on this committee to advocate for the servicemembers and their families stationed at Hanscom Air Force Base at home, and the brave men and women of the US Armed Forces around the globe."
Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, who preceded Trahan in office, previously served as a senior member of the Armed Services Committee and used her perch there to become a vocal advocate for veterans and for the military-related jobs in the Third District.
Trahan said her district "has some of the most cutting-edge military and research and development facilities in the country" and said she is pleased to be able to continue some of Tsongas' work for the district.
U.S. Rep. Adam Smith from Washington chairs the U.S. Armed Services Committee. Trahan's office said subcommittee assignments are still forthcoming. - Colin A. Young/SHNS
