Congressman Brett Guthrie, who serves as Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, delivered his opening statement at the committee’s Member Day hearing in Washington, D.C. on December 12, 2025.
The purpose of the Member Day hearing is to allow members of the House of Representatives to present their legislative priorities that fall within the jurisdiction of the Energy and Commerce Committee. Guthrie highlighted the long history of the committee, noting its status as the oldest authorizing committee in Congress. He stated, “Last Monday marked the 230th year of the Committee and another opportunity to reflect on and celebrate its rich legislative history. In just the last year alone, we have had 53 bills pass out of the House, and ten bills signed into law by the President.”
Guthrie emphasized bipartisan cooperation within the committee’s work. He said, “Much of our Committee’s work is done in a bipartisan manner. In fact, we held an important subcommittee markup yesterday discussing bills to keep our children safe online. I want to thank Ranking Member Pallone and his Members for working with us on that important legislation. But also—despite some of our policy disagreements—Ranking Member Pallone and I have found several ways to work together on Committee priorities to deliver solutions for the American people. This bipartisanship is another deep tradition of the Committee.”
He also expressed appreciation for colleagues presenting at the hearing: “I want to thank my colleagues before us today for coming before the Committee to share your hard work, your perspectives, and your legislative ideas. We know the matters you are presenting to the Committee are not only important to you, but also to the hundreds of thousands of constituents whom you serve.”
Guthrie concluded by reaffirming a commitment to collaboration: “The Committee looks forward to listening and learning from you today as we all work together on behalf of the American people.”
