(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers announced she is running for Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference.  The House Republican Conference represents all of the House Republicans and approves GOP Member committee assignments, manages leadership-driven floor debates and helps develop the House Republicans’ communications strategy.

“It is my desire to help our conference advance the principles and values we hold dear,” McMorris Rodgers said in a letter to fellow House Republicans.  “In rebuilding our party, we must broaden our appeal by sharpening our message, redefining our agenda, building coalitions, and inspiring a new generation of Republicans.  We must communicate a vision for America’s future that inspires people and rallies them to our banner.  As a new mother and the second-youngest woman serving in Congress, I bring a unique and important perspective.  I provide valuable experience and a thoughtful voice as we identify the next steps.”

Since coming to Congress in 2005, McMorris Rodgers has taken advantage of several leadership positions including chairing a task force to reform the National Environmental Policy Act, co-chairing the bipartisan Women’s Caucus and serving as Ranking Member of the Water and Power Subcommittee of Resources.  McMorris Rodgers has used those opportunities to promote the collaborative and responsible use of our natural resources, American energy development, and the promotion of family values and personal responsibility.

McMorris Rodgers looks forward to serving her third term representing Eastern Washington in Congress.  Prior to being elected to Congress in 2005, she served ten years in the Washington State House of Representatives, including being the first woman to serve as House Minority Leader.  McMorris Rodgers grew up on her family’s orchard in Kettle Falls and spent 13 years working there.  She is married to retired Navy pilot Brian Rodgers and they are the proud parents of an 18-month-old son, Cole.