Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) was named to the House Judiciary Committee, replacing an influential Progressive Democrat and gay rights David Cicilline of Illinois.
Balint will join the minority Democrats on Judiciary, which is chaired by Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Illinois).
The Judiciary Committee has oversight over Constitutional freedoms and civil liberties, oversight of the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, legal and regulatory reform, antitrust laws, terrorism and crime, gun violence prevention and immigration reform.
“I’m ready to get to work on some of the most pressing issues facing American families today – reproductive rights, criminal justice, gun violence, democracy and voting rights, and LGBTQI+ rights,” Balint said. “Protecting civil liberties has always been at the core of my career and Judiciary Democrats have been steadfast in the fight against continued attacks on our democratic values. I plan to be a voice of reason and clarity to serve the needs of New Englanders and rural Americans. I’m looking forward to working alongside Ranking Member Jerry Nadler to stand up for the needs and rights of working families.”
“As the committee and the House of Representatives loses one of its strongest champions for LGBTQI+ rights in former Rep. David Cicilline, I look forward to continuing his legacy on the committee,” continued Balint.