Transition Watch: Waxman takes round one over Dingell

Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) narrowly won the first vote to replace Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich.) as the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, reports Reuters.

The House Democratic Steering Committee recommeded 25-22 that Waxman head the energy panel in the new Congress set to convene in January.

The full House Democratic conference will vote on Thursday.

If Waxman wins the energy chairmanship, then Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.) will go for the chairmanship of Waxman's current committee, the House Oversight and Government Reform, reports The Hill.