There's been lots of chatter on K Street about certain lobbyists losing some clout as the result of Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., being forced to relinquish the gavel of the House Energy and Commerce Committee this week. Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif. will be the new chair of the committee in the next Congress.

"We used to have a saying on the staff that if you had three heads and green skin, but gave him good advice, he would listen. As a young woman relatively new to Washington in 1989, I definitely benefited from that approach. He decided that he trusted me and as a result I was given tremendous opportunities at a relatively young age. For that I will always be grateful. The legislative strategy and tactical skills I learned from Mr. Dingell have served me well through 2 decades in Washington, from the White House and Clinton cabinet agencies to the private sector. Everyone knows his legislative skills are tremendous, but, as important, I think, is the perspective he has brought and will continue to bring to his work. I feel fortunate to have started my career working for someone with such high regard for government service in general, and indeed, love for institution of the House of Representatives in particular. I also admire the clear ethical compass he brings to every situation. He has influenced a whole generation of legislators and non-legislators alike."