Frontline Democrats Urge Support for Jared Huffman in Natural Resources Race

In a new letter released Monday, more than 20 frontline Democrats urged the Steering Committee to support Huffman over Rep. Melanie Stansbury in the race to lead Natural Resources.

Jared Huffman

Rep. Jared Huffman speaks at Balletto Vineyards in Santa Rosa, California. Jeff Chiu/AP

A coalition of more than 20 frontline House Democrats is coming out in support of California Rep. Jared Huffman over New Mexico Rep. Melanie Stansbury in the race to take over as the Natural Resources Committee’s ranking member, according to a letter of support obtained by NOTUS.

“By doing strong committee work and helping members in difficult seats with committee actions and with their campaigns, Ranking Members/Chairs play an important role in the overall success of our Democratic Caucus,” the letter said. “That is why we are writing to urge your support of Jared Huffman to serve as Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee.”

The members, each of whom faced particularly tight races in November, lauded Huffman’s work on climate, tribal and environmental issues in the letter, emphasizing his readiness to stand up to President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda on Day One.