Rep. Joe Barton’s (R-Texas) likely ascendancy to the chairmanship of the Energy and Commerce Committee will get a boost today from his fellow panel members. [IMGCAP(1)]

As of Friday, nearly all of the committee’s Republicans had signed a letter to Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) endorsing the Texan’s bid to succeed Rep. Billy Tauzin (R-La.), who will surrender the gavel effective Feb. 16.

“We have observed Congressman Barton’s dedication to the Committee he has served on for over 17 years. … He has demonstrated excellent leadership and knowledge of the issues,” the letter states.

The signatures of two lawmakers out of town Friday will be sought today, and then the letter will be sent to Hastert.

Tech Times. The Congressional Internet Caucus Advisory Committee’s seventh annual kickoff reception and technology fair will take place from 5 to 7 p.m Wednesday in Room 902 of the Hart Senate Office Building.

The caucus co-chairmen, Sens. Conrad Burns (R-Mont.) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Reps. Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Rick Boucher (D-Va.), will be on hand to highlight key technology issues for the 108th Congress. Hands-on demonstrations of a variety of technologies will also take place. For more information, call (202) 637-4370.

— Ben Pershing and Bree Hocking