Renzi Now Co-Chairman Of Native American Caucus

U.S. Rep. Rick Renzi (AZ-01) has been elected co-chairman of the bipartisan Congressional Native American Caucus, his office announced today. U.S. Rep. Dale Kildee (MI-5) will serve as the Democratic co-chairman of the group.

"I am humbled to be elected co-chairman of the Congressional Native American Caucus," said Congressman Renzi. "During the last 4 years, I've been honored to represent thousands of Native Americans in the House of Representatives, & now I'm pleased to play an even greater role in improving the quality of life for many more First Americans throughout the country."

Since its establishment in 1997, the Congressional Native American Caucus has led the fight to protect tribal sovereignty & defeat every anti-tribal sovereignty proposal. The Caucus also supports proactive measures designed to improve Indian health care systems, develop better housing in Indian communities, & spur economic development in Indian country. In addition, the Caucus fights for funding increases that help tribal governments serve their citizens.

The Executive Committee for the Congressional Native American Caucus consists of 2 co-chairs & 8 vice-chairs & reflects the bi-partisan nature of the Caucus. Each Member of the executive committee can serve 2-year terms as often as desired, & serves at the will of the Caucus.

Renzi served as a vice-chair of the Caucus during the 108th & 109th Congress.

Congressional Native American Caucus Executive Committee for 110th Congress:

Dale E. Kildee (D-MI), Co-chair Rick Renzi (R-AZ), Co-chair
Patrick Kennedy (D-RI), Vice-chair Tom Cole (R-OK), Vice-chair
Ron Kind (D-WI), Vice-chair John Sullivan (R-OK), Vice-chair
Tom Udall (D-NM), Vice-chair Steve Pearce (R-NM), Vice-chair
Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Vice-chair Mary Bono (R-CA), Vice-chair

The Caucus currently boasts of 103 members.