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Washington • Rep. Chris Stewart will serve on the House Intelligence Committee, Speaker John Boehner announced Wednesday, putting the Utah Republican on a key panel amidst recent terrorism fears.
Stewart, who was also appointed to the House Appropriations Committee, is a former Air Force major and touts his military experience in his approach to Congress.
"As a former Air Force pilot, I understand the need for a strong national defense and protection against the world's dangers," Stewart said in a statement. "I'm honored to serve on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, which is tasked with the critical role of overseeing our national security activities."
Boehner said in announcing the Intelligence Committee members that the recent terrorist attacks in France — which have killed 17 and prompted American authorities to issue terror warnings to police — are a reminder of the constant threat the country faces from extremists.
"It also gives us pause to recognize the incredible challenges our intelligence community faces in its efforts to keep Americans safe," Boehner said. "Chairman [Devin] Nunes and our members are committed to ensuring our intelligence professionals have the tools and resources they need to execute their mission, as well as conducting effective oversight of the administration, and I look forward to working with them."
Stewart was also selected to serve on three Appropriations subcommittees covering the Interior Department, foreign operations and homeland security.