Rep. Joseph Barton (R-TX), the new chairman of the powerful House Energy and Commerce Committee, created two new posts — Whip and Coalition Director — in his first week on the job.

He named Rep. John Shadegg (R-AZ) committee whip, and Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL) as coalition director. Both lawmakers are members of the House energy panel.

In his role, Shadegg will assist Barton and will poll members to see where they stand on issues prior to a vote by the full committee, said Barton spokeswoman Samantha Jordan.

Shimkus will serve as a liaison between the committee and the various coalitions and associations in Washington, DC, that have business before the House panel, which has jurisdiction over energy, health, environment, telecommunications and commerce issues.

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