WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, R-Kan., Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, on Wednesday unveiled his official portrait to be displayed in the Committee’s hearing room. Roberts has served as Chairman during the 114th, 115th, and 116th Congresses, according to a media release from the committee.
“When I assumed the gavel as the Chairman nearly six years ago, I noted that this committee has a long history of caring more about the issues than the ideology. More about the people than the party,” said Chairman Roberts. “It is in this spirit of service that I sought to guide our committee’s work with three principles in mind.”
“The first was that our committee be the platform for America’s farmers, ranchers, small businesses, rural communities, school children, and the hungry to raise their concerns. Too often we’ve heard from constituents that they feel ‘ruled’ and not ‘governed.’
“Second, this committee would conduct thorough and vigorous oversight of the activities of the departments and agencies within our jurisdiction and those that impact our constituents. It is our responsibility to ensure that our government operates efficiently, effectively and in a responsible manner to the taxpayers. That effort has spanned multiple Administrations. And, we have sought to take a bipartisan approach when possible.
“Finally, this committee conduct its legislative business in an open and transparent way that provides members opportunities to work across the aisle for the betterment of our constituents.”
The portrait was commissioned by the Kansas Historical Foundation and the Kansas Historical Society. Artist Stephen Craighead painted the portrait that will be hung among those of other past chairmen of the Senate Agriculture Committee. The portrait unveiling event was organized in accordance with guidance from the Office of the Attending Physician and CDC guidelines.
Roberts is the only member of Congress in modern history to serve as Chairman and Ranking Member of both the Senate and House Agriculture Committees.