1. ENERGY POLICY:
Shimkus would boost fossil fuels as Energy chairman
Republican Rep. John Shimkus of Illinois, a contender for the top spot on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, vowed to wield his power if he becomes chairman to boost domestic production of traditional energy sources. Shimkus promoted himself as the best man for the job behind current ranking member Joe Barton of Texas, who has reached his six-year GOP term limit at the top of the panel and is seeking a waiver to keep the post.