Washington, D.C. (January 16, 2013) – Today, North Dakota Congressman Kevin Cramer announced that he will be joining the Congressional Western Caucus. The Caucus is in its twentieth year of advocating for Western and rural interests in Congress.

“ I am honored to join the Western Caucus,” Cramer said. “As a Public Service Commissioner from 2003 to 2012, my jurisdiction included oversight of mine reclamation, electricity and gas rates , transmission facility, energy siting, grain sale and storage,” Cramer continued. “Coming from North Dakota, I know firsthand how energy independence impacts economic growth and job creation. I look forward to working with Congressman Pearce and the rest of the Congressional Western Caucus to promote common sense ideas affecting Western and rural communities all across America.”

“We're very pleased to welcome Congressman Cramer to the Congressional Western Caucus,” Chairman Steve Pearce added. “I believe that his experience with the energy industry will prove itself to be an invaluable resource to the Caucus as we continue the fight for American energy independence and job growth across the West. We are excited to have Rep. Cramer on the team and have no doubts that he is up to the challenge of protecting and fighting for the West in Washington.”

The mission of the Western Caucus is to enhance, sustain, and preserve the West's dynamic and unique culture, and to find innovative solutions that address the distinctive concerns facing western and rural communities. The Western Caucus is also committed to protecting private property, strengthening local control, promoting economic growth, and increasing energy independence.

For more information about the Congressional Western Caucus, please visit www.westerncaucus.pearce.house.gov.

Cramer is the sole Congressman from North Dakota. He serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.