In a reversal from last week, House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) has returned the chairmanship of the Government Operations Subcommittee to Rep. Rep. Mark Meadows (R-NC).
“Last week I announced a change in the Government Operations sub-committee chairmanship. A number of people have asked me to reconsider that decision. Having spoken with Mark Meadows several times during the past week, I think we both better understand each other,” Chaffetz said in a statement Thursday.
Chaffetz had stripped Meadows of his chairmanship after Meadows joined with 33 other GOP members to vote against the party on a procedural motion dealing with Obama’s trade agenda earlier this month.
The action sparked outcry from conservatives and endorsements from House Speaker John Boehner.
Thursday, however, found the Utah Republican returning the gavel to Meadows, saying he respects the North Carolinian’s approach, and their discussions have been “healthy and productive.”
“Ultimately, I believe we both want to do what is best for the country. Obviously I believe in Mark Meadows or I would not have appointed him to this position in the first place. It is in the best interest of the Committee to move forward together. Therefore, I have asked Mark to continue in his role as sub-committee Chairman,” Chaffetz said.
In a statement issued in conjunction with the House Oversight Chairman, Meadows said he would continue to vote his conscience
“I greatly appreciate Chairman Jason Chaffetz’ willingness to reconsider his decision, as well as my Oversight and Government Reform Committee colleagues’ support. I will continue to vote and conduct myself in accordance with my conscience, what my constituents want me to do, and what is best for the country,” he said.
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