With New York Representative Peter King's term as the chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security set to expire, many were wondering who would take over the role. Now, it appears as though Texas Representative Michael McCaul will be taking the honor.
According to Security Info Watch, McCaul is no stranger to being on house committies. He is currently the chair of the Oversight, Investigations and Management subcommittee and a member of the Border and Maritime Security subcommittee.
"Our nation faces a variety of homeland security challenges, including international and domestic terrorism, securing our borders and preventing cyber attacks," McCaul said in a statement, according to the news provider. "It is the responsibility of our Committee to provide oversight to ensure the Department of Homeland Security is managed with efficiency and integrity so that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, that leadership is accountable and that DHS' rank and file are adequately supported to accomplish their important mission of protecting the homeland."
According to the New York Daily News, McCaul was formerly the chief of counterterrorism and national security for Texas' Justice Department, and also served as a U.S. attorney.
In the bid for the position, McCaul reportedly edged out Michigan Representative Candice Miller and Alabama Representative Mike Rogers. Although King did not endorse anyone for the position, the news provider reports he did offer his congratulations to McCaul.
"I know that he is committed to securing our Homeland from terrorism and ensuring that the Department of Homeland Security acts in an effective and responsible manner," King said in a statement.
Fox News reports King needed to resign from his position due to House rules that no one can remain a committee chairman for more than six years. However, King was given a one-year extension in the role, which he is currently finishing. The news provider reports that he officially announced his intent to step down from the role this past Saturday.
Due to the shift, Fox News reports King will remain a member of the House Intelligence Committee and he could take over as the chairman of the Homeland committee's Counterterrorism and Intelligence subcommittee.