WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney is apparently quickly moving up the House political food chain as evidenced by his appointment Wednesday to the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee.

Just days into his second term, the Pleasanton Democrat who represents CA-11 said he was excited by the appointment.

"I'm thrilled to gain a seat on the Energy and Commerce Committee.  I'm anxious to delve into some of the committee's issues, including the development of a new national energy policy that focuses on the use and production of renewable energy and addressing the need for affordable and accessible healthcare for all Americans," said McNerney, who holds a doctorate in mathematics and is a wind energy engineer in private life.

Spokesman Andy Stone said McNerney's new position became official Wednesday afternoon after a vote in the Steering and Policy Committee, which considers committee assignment, and then a ratifying vote by the entire Democratic Caucus.

Energy and Commerce is the House's oldest standing committee and considered one of the most important.  Throughout its history, it has produced many pieces of landmark legislation.

In addition to his new seat on the Energy and Commerce Committee, McNerney also sits on the House Veterans Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure and Science and Technology committees as well as the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming.