Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), a chief deputy Whip, is adding her name to the public list of House Democrats standing behind Energy and Commerce Chairman John Dingell (D-Mich.) as he tries to fend off a gavel challenge from Oversight and Government Reform Chairman Henry Waxman (D-Calif.).

In a statement explaining her decision, DeGette heaped praise on both lawmakers, and argued they should both stay put.  DeGette is a member of the Energy and Commerce panel.

“Given the critical work ahead, now is not the time for a change in the chairmanship of the Energy and Commerce Committee,” she said.

Dingell’s camp earlier today asked lawmakers backing him to go public.  Waxman is taking the opposite approach, keeping his endorsements private.