December 12,2012

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Baucus Welcomes New Democratic Finance Committee Members

Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) Joining Committee in 113th Congress

Washington, DCSenate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) today welcomed Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), who will join the committee for the 113th Congress starting in January.  Senators Brown and Bennet will replace outgoing Senators Kent Conrad (D-N.D.) and Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.), both retiring this year.

Senator Brown was first elected to the Senate in 2006, and he was reelected in November for a second term.  He served previously in the House of Representatives and as Ohio Secretary of State and in the Ohio House of Representatives.

“Sherrod Brown is a fierce advocate for of the middle class, and he will bring a valuable perspective to the Finance Committee,” Senator Baucus said.  “Sherrod has a laser-like focus on solutions that will mean more jobs and prosperity among families in Ohio and across the country.”

Senator Bennet was appointed to the Senate in 2009 and elected to a full term in 2010.  He previously served as Superintendent of the Denver Public Schools.

“Michael Bennet brings a wealth of practical, real-world experience to the Finance Committee.  He has proven himself to be an up-and-coming leader who is always willing to reach across party lines,” Senator Baucus said.  “As a fellow Westerner, I know Michael has a top-notch work ethic and will deliver common-sense solutions.”

The Finance Committee is one of the most established and influential committees in the Senate.  It has legislative jurisdiction over tax policy, trade policy and Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.  These programs and policies constitute more than half of the federal budget and all of federal revenue, having a direct impact on the nation’s economy.

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