"All three of these subcommittees are very important to the region," said Smith.

The Water & Power Subcommittee is likely to have jurisdiction over key parts of energy deregulation--a critical issue to the Northwest and the Bonneville Power Administration, explained Smith.

"The most important thing this subcommittee will work on is portions of energy deregulation," said Smith. "I'm very excited to have a role in the debate. I want to ensure that energy restructuring protects Washington state consumers and our rivers."

The Procurement Subcommittee, the most coveted subcommittee on the National Security Committee, has jurisdiction over purchasing military hardware, full-scale development of weapons systems, military application of nuclear energy, and authorizes $60 to $80 billion in spending.

"Making sure that our military has the top-of-the-line technology is critical," explained Smith. "We need to provide them with the best equipment while being fiscally responsible. I'm looking forward to working on that process."

Smith is also a member of the Military Installations and Facilities Subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over military construction, real estate acquisition, and housing and support for military personnel. 

"We have two military bases in the 9th district, McChord Air Force Base and Fort Lewis Army Base," Smith said. "I know this subcommittee can provide me real opportunities to make a difference in the lives of people in my district. My number one priority on this subcommittee is to make sure our hard-working military personnel have good housing and services on their facilities."