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Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, was named Wednesday to the select committee created by House Republican leaders to investigate the 2012 terrorist attack in Benghazi that killed U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Americans.

Democrats had considered boycotting the panel, particularly after the National Republican Congressional Committee began using it as a fundraising vehicle.

After receiving assurances of fairness, over such matters as the committees witness list, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi filled the five Democratic slots on the committee. The panel has seven Republicans including its chairman, Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-South Carolina.

The loss of four brave Americans was tragic, and we must do everything possible to prevent such attacks from happening again. On that point, there is no debate, Smith said.

What is not clear is why this committee needs to be formed in the first place. What are Republicans trying to accomplish?

Pelosi ignored the caucus show horse who volunteered to serve on the panel, Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Florida, in favor of a workhorse lineup.

The ranking Democrat will be Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Maryland, best known for his dignified resistance to the publicity seeking investigations of subpoena-happy House Oversight Committee Chairman Rep. Darrell Issa, R-California.

Other Democrats will include Rep. Tammy Duckworth, D-Illinois, an Iraq War veteran and double amputee, and Reps. Adam Schiff and Linda Sanchez, D-California.

Smith is completing his 20th year of service in the House. Since the 2011 redistricting, his 9th District has included much of Seattle south of Madison Street. He was an early supporter and state chair of Barack Obamas 2008 presidential campaign in the state.

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Rep. Adam Smith named as Democrat on Benghazi panel