Rep. Brian Mast, R-Fla., has been chosen by the House GOP Steering Committee to chair the Foreign Affairs Committee in the next Congress. Mast, a vocal supporter of President-elect Donald Trump, was selected over contenders including Reps. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., Joe Wilson, R-S.C., and Ann Wagner, R-Mo., according to Axios.
Mast, an Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient, has served in the House since 2017 and currently chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight. His leadership will replace outgoing Chair Michael McCaul, R-Texas, who is term-limited. The full House must ratify the Steering Committee’s recommendation.
Mast’s approach to foreign aid, particularly for Ukraine, aligns closely with Trump’s, differing from some competitors like Wagner and Wilson. He assumes this role at a time of global instability, including the war in Ukraine, Israel’s conflict in Gaza, concerns over China’s intentions toward Taiwan, and upheaval in Syria.
As the Foreign Affairs Committee oversees U.S. arms sales, Mast is expected to support military assistance to Israel and other key Middle Eastern allies to counter threats from Iran. His leadership will play a critical role in navigating U.S. responses to these crises.
The House GOP Steering Committee also named Rep. Brett Guthrie, R-Ky., as chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, succeeding retiring Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash. Guthrie emphasized prioritizing energy independence, technological innovation, and healthcare reforms aligned with the America First agenda.
Additionally, Rep. Brian Babin, R-Texas, will lead the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, focusing on advancing U.S. space exploration and scientific leadership.
