January 15, 2009 06:05 PM UTC

Markey Scores Ag Committee Appointment

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• by: Colorado Pols

It’s the seat freshman Rep. Betsy Markey needed most, and the delay in her getting it had produced some nervousness–not to worry, as the Fort Collins Coloradoan reports:

Markey actively sought the appointment. Her predecessor, Republican Marilyn Musgrave, also sat on the Agriculture Committee.

“I am honored to have earned a seat on the Agriculture Committee,” Markey said. “As we set farm policy for the nation, I will be a strong advocate for rural communities and rural economies. I am committed to serving Colorado’s farmers and ranchers and to keeping America’s agricultural heritage strong.”

Markey was appointed earlier to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

The chairman of the Agriculture Committee, Collin Peterson, D-Minn., praised Markey.

“Coming from the 4th District of Colorado, Betsy knows first-hand about the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture and the rural economy,” he said. “Even before she got to Washington, Betsy made her interest in agriculture clear; and having met with her, I know she’ll be an outstanding advocate for Colorado farmers, ranchers and rural residents in Congress.”

Democratic leaders placed Markey on committees that could increase her re-election chances in 2010, said Robert Duffy, chairman of the Colorado State University political science department…

Markey didn’t wait for the appointment to introduce related legislation that should prove popular in her district. Combined with a seat on Ag, Markey has put herself in a good position to capitalize her incumbency ahead of a widely-anticipated 2010 showdown.

Markey has also been active in her short time on Capitol Hill in other areas. She organized a group of rural freshman congressional members and was invited to meet with President-elect Barack Obama’s economic advisors.