Vitter ranking member on Senate Commerce Subcommittee

U.S. Sen. David Vitter was named the ranking member of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Space, Aeronautics and Related Sciences Thursday.

He replaces U.S. Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.), who is resigning.

“I am very excited to have been named to this position,” Vitter said in a released statement. “NASA has a long history and significant presence in Louisiana. Thousands of Louisianans are employed by the Michoud Assembly Facility and Stennis Space Center, and the impact of the space program on Louisiana cannot be understated. I look forward to playing a significant role and representing Louisiana’s interests as we work to shape the future of the space program.”

The Michoud facility in New Orleans is responsible for producing the space shuttle’s external fuel tanks. It has more than 4,200 employees.

“This is a fantastic opportunity,” Vitter said. “This subcommittee handles issues that are important to Louisiana industry and to our continued presence at the forefront of space and aeronautical sciences. I look forward to next year and the work ahead.”

Vitter serves on the Commerce, Science and Transportation subcommittees on Aviation Operations, Safety and Security; Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Safety, Infrastructure and Security; Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard; Interstate Commerce, Trade and Tourism; and Consumer Affairs, Insurance and Automotive Safety.

He will also retain his membership on the Foreign Relations and Environment and Public Works Committees and on the Special Committee on Aging.