House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairmanship Up for Grabs?

Rep. Sam Graves (R-6th/Mo.) is seeking a waiver to continue serving as chair of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee (T&I), but his chances appear slim as the GOP looks to introduce new leadership in committee positions. Under House Republican rules, members are limited to three consecutive terms as chair or ranking member, and Graves’ request for an exemption is linked to a similar bid from Foreign Affairs Chair Michael McCaul (R-10th/Texas). While Graves remains hopeful, Republican aides suggest that the steering committee, responsible for recommending committee chairs, is unlikely to approve the waivers, preferring to give opportunities to newer members.

Supporters argue that Graves should retain his position to oversee the reauthorization of the next surface transportation bill, a significant task aligned with the GOP’s focus on infrastructure improvements. Several T&I members, including Reps. Eric Burlison (R-7th/Mo.) and David Rouzer (R-7th/N.C.), have backed Graves’ bid, citing his success in advancing key legislation such as FAA reauthorization. However, he faces competition from Rep. Rick Crawford (R-1st/Ark.) within his own party, who has actively campaigned for the chair position and plans to introduce a policy platform if appointed.

Despite Graves’ appeal to stay on as Committee chair, the prevailing sentiment among GOP ranks seems to favor upholding the party’s term limits, which will likely prevent him from retaining his leadership role. The T&I Committee is significant for TIA membership, as it shapes policies, determines federal funding resources and oversees regulatory agencies that directly impact 3PL policymaking.