USATODAY.com - Rep. Pombo, Prominent Anti-Enviromentalist, Becomes Chairman of House Resources Committee

During his 10 years in the House, he has sparred with environmentalists, fought to protect property rights and water rights from federal encroachment, sponsored legislation to repeal pesticide regulations and tried to overhaul the Endangered Species Act, which he says is out of control.

He was jumped ahead of moderate members with more seniority who are being punished in committee assignments by House Majority Leader Tom "Bug Man" Delay.