Behind the Headlines

Pretty powerful, apparently.
U.S. Rep. John D. Dingell, D-Dearborn, is ranked the fourth most powerful member of the House, according to new rankings by Knowlegis, a firm that gathers Congressional data and links clients with legislators.
The organization ranks legislators annually on the position they hold on committees, the influence they wield, the legislation they move forward and the earmarked funding they get for their constituents.
Only Reps. Nancy Pelosi of California, Steny Hower of Maryland and Charles Rangel of New York were ranked higher than Rep. Dingell.
Rep. Dingell also was ranked the fourth most powerful among Democratic lawmakers and the most powerful federal legislator in Michigan. Carl Levin, was the next closest among federal legislators from Michigan, ranked eighth in the state.
Rep. Dingell’s stock began soaring in 2007 after regaining his position as chairman of the powerful Committee on Energy and Commerce. In 2005 and 2006, he was ranked in the 80s.
To see all rankings, click here.