Some of the new masters of oversight are eager to get to work. [Pending Transportation and Infrastructure Chair Rep. James] Oberstar's agenda includes tightening port security and improving the operations of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, much maligned for its Hurricane Katrina performance.

Rep. John D. Dingell, a Michigan Democrat, is set to return as chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over consumer protection, telecommunications, air quality, energy, and food and drug safety.

Dingell has a reputation for relentless investigation, and his "Dingellgrams" -- requests for exhaustive paperwork from federal agencies and witnesses -- are remembered and feared in Washington.

Other Congressmen with oversight agendas include Rep. George Miller, who will oversee occupational health and safety on the Education and Workforce Committee, and Sen. Edward Kennedy, who will do the same on the Senate side.

Posted by Genevieve Smith, 10:46:48 PM