Northwest Indiana congressman to help direct trillions in federal spending

Northwest Indiana once again has a representative on the powerful U.S. House committee that annually decides how to spend trillions of dollars in federal government funds.

U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland, was appointed Tuesday to the House Appropriations Committee at the start of his third term after seeking a seat on the federal spending panel since first winning election to the House in 2020.

"I thank Leader Jeffries and all of my colleagues in the House Democratic Caucus for electing me to the House Appropriations Committee so that I can advocate for Northwest Indiana and our nation through the essential work of this committee," Mrvan said.

"I look forward to ensuring that the federal government has the necessary resources, oversight, and direction to promote our national security, grow our economy, and create more work and wealth for everyone."

Mrvan secured the committee post, in part, by emphasizing his interest in advancing policies that clearly define the nation's values and priorities through the federal funding process.

"The members of organized labor and working families understand that federal funds and programs are what keep our economy growing and creating new good-paying job opportunities, and I would tirelessly strive to ensure that the message and legislation of the House Appropriations Committee continues to fulfill this need," Mrvan said in his request for the seat.

His appointment revives a streak of recent Northwest Indiana congressmen sitting on the committee, including U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Gary, who served on Appropriations from 1991 to 2020, including a stint as chairman of the defense subcommittee; and U.S. Rep. Adam Benjamin Jr., D-Gary, who was on the panel from 1977 to 1982, serving as chairman of the transportation subcommittee.

"As a public servant, I know that the House Appropriations Committee is the heart of improving government services and making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families in communities in Northwest Indiana and across our nation and the world," Mrvan said.