Corker replaces Martinez as ranking member on Senate Aging Committee

Senator Bob Corker (R-TN) on Tuesday was officially named ranking member of the Senate Special Committee on Aging. He replaces Sen. Mel Martinez (R-FL), who resigned abruptly from the Senate in August.

In a statement accompanying the announcement, Corker said the new leadership role will afford him the opportunity and resources to direct his attentions toward finding "fiscally responsible solutions to the challenges facing aging Americans, health care reform, the solvency of Social Security and Medicare, as well as savings, retirement and financial policies that continue to impact all Americans including those who are aging." As the most senior Republican member of the committee who is not currently serving as a ranking member of any other committee, Corker was the most likely choice for the post. Corker was elected to the senate in 2006 and also holds seats on the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, Energy and Natural Resources and Foreign Relations committees.

Martinez's abrupt departure from the Senate came a full year before his term was to expire, surprising many in Washington. Martinez resigned for personal and family reasons, according to a statement given at the time. On Wednesday, international law firm DLA Piper announced Martinez had accepted a job as a partner in its government affairs department.