Leadership Shakeup: New Chairs Appointed in Key Congressional Subcommittees

Washington, D.C., USA - On July 15, 2025, significant changes took place within the House Committee on Energy and Commerce during a Full Committee Business Meeting led by Congressman Brett Guthrie from Kentucky. These changes have not only reshaped leadership roles but also highlighted the political dynamics that could influence key legislative agendas moving forward. A notable transition was Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter stepping down as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, with Rep. Morgan Griffith from Virginia’s Ninth District taking the reins as the new Chairman. Griffith’s appointment is particularly significant given his extensive experience within various subcommittees, including his previous role as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations during the 118th Congress. His involvement in health-related issues is showcased as Griffith has been an active member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, focusing on public health and federal regulations in his district.

Moreover, Rep. Gary Palmer from Alabama now chairs the Subcommittee on Environment, while Rep. John Joyce from Pennsylvania leads the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. It’s worth noting that Rep. Neal Dunn from Florida was appointed as Vice Chairman of the full committee, adding his voice to the ongoing discussions that shape the committee’s objectives.

Subcommittee Composition

The reshuffled leadership comes with new rosters for the subcommittees, ensuring that fresh perspectives contribute to ongoing debates. For example, the Subcommittee on Health now includes a range of representatives who reflect diverse interests and concerns. Alongside Griffith as Chairman and Diana Harshbarger from Tennessee serving as Vice Chair, the committee’s membership features a cross-section of lawmakers, including:

• Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)
• Rep. Buddy Carter (GA-01)
• Rep. Neal Dunn (FL-02)
• Rep. Dan Crenshaw (TX-02)
• Rep. John Joyce (PA-13)
• Rep. Troy Balderson (OH-12)
• Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01)
• Rep. Kat Cammack (FL-03)
• Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23)
• Rep. John James (MI-10)
• Rep. Cliff Bentz (OR-02)
• Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09)
• Rep. Nick Langworthy (NY-23)
• Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)
• Rep. Michael Rulli (OH-06)

This diversity is vital, especially given the subcommittee’s responsibilities, which include addressing pressing health matters that impact various communities, including efforts to ensure equitable access to healthcare across the board.

A Broader Context of Health Oversight

Substantially, Griffith’s leadership is set against the backdrop of broader investigations into institutions like the Gladstone Institutes. The House Committee on Energy and Commerce, partnering with the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, has raised concerns about antisemitic harassment and inadequate responses from leadership within such institutions. Reports circulated about antisemitic incidents at Gladstone following high-profile attacks globally, causing distress among faculty and staff. This ongoing situation emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and non-discriminatory work environment, particularly for those receiving federal funds – with Gladstone recently receiving over $41 million in NIH funding in Fiscal Year 2023.

It’s clear that Congressman Griffith, in his new role, will face the challenge of not only steering health policy but also ensuring equity and safety within the healthcare domain, drawing upon his significant background in oversight and investigations. His committee’s work holds the potential to impact countless lives, making this leadership change all the more pivotal.