CASTRO JOINS HOUSE PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi announced that Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) will join the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), effective immediately. 

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve on this critical committee and I’m grateful for Leader Pelosi’s trust,” said Rep. Castro. “The United States’ intelligence operations are instrumental in our nation’s efforts to combat terror around the world and keep the American people safe. Often called Cyber City USA, my hometown San Antonio is a national leader in cybersecurity, a vitally important field to U.S. intelligence agencies and officers. I look forward to undertaking this new position and working with my HPSCI colleagues to ensure our nation’s intelligence activities are carried out in a strategic, responsible manner.”

The HPSCI is charged with the oversight of the United States Intelligence Community, which includes the intelligence and intelligence related activities of 17 elements of the U.S. Government, and the Military Intelligence Program.

“Joaquin Castro has shown himself to be an outstanding leader on the national security issues before America today,” said Leader Pelosi. “On the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Congressman Castro has consistently displayed the strength of his judgement, the depths of his expertise, and the power of his commitment to the brave men and women who keep our country safe. As he takes a leave of absence from Armed Services to pursue this appointment, Congressman Castro will bring that same judgement, expertise and commitment to the Intelligence Committee – where he will continue his leadership for our military families and the security of all Americans.”

Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-28) serves as the committee’s ranking member, and Congressman Devin Nunes (CA-22) chairs the HPSCI. 

“Rep. Joaquin Castro will make a great addition to the House Intelligence Committee, and we are proud he will be joining us,” said Ranking Member Schiff. “From his experience on the House Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees, to his efforts to improve our nation’s cybersecurity, Rep. Castro's background and experience will be an invaluable addition to our oversight capabilities.”

More information on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence is available here: http://democrats.intelligence.house.gov/

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