Walden Picked for House Commerce Committee Chair After Race With Shimkus, Barton

Rep. Greg Walden, R-Ore., beat out opponents and will chair the House Commerce Committee next Congress. The current head of the Communications Subcommittee, though junior in seniority in the leadership derby to succeed outgoing full committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-Mich., won his quest to get the nod from a group of GOP leaders over the more-senior Rep. John Shimkus, R-Ill.

The House leadership steering committee voted Thursday night. Industry officials said Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas, who also was a contender like Shimkus, wasn't being picked. Walden later confirmed he won the nod.