Guthrie set to lead Energy and Commerce Committee

Rep. Brett Guthrie of Kentucky was recommended by his Republican colleagues Monday night to become chair of the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee, defeating Rep. Bob Latta of Ohio, two people familiar with the decision told POLITICO.

House Republicans’ steering committee chose Guthrie, but the decision still needs to be ratified by the full conference, which is considered a formality.

The top Republican position on the committee was up for grabs due to Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) declining to seek reelection as part of a wave of retirements among GOP members of the influential House panel.

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Jordain Carney contributed to this report.