Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii has been named to the Armed Services Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The House Democratic Caucus announced the appointment Tuesday.

Gabbard says Hawaii plays a significant role in advancing defense and policy in the Asia-Pacific region. She says her appointment ensures Hawaii will continue to have a role on the important committee.

Gabbard says she hopes to cut waste and inefficiency in the Department of Defense. As a combat veteran, she says she takes her responsibility very seriously.

Gabbard was named to fill a seat that was left vacant by Democratic U.S. Rep. Rob Andrews of New Jersey. He resigned from Congress in February during an ethics investigation.

The full House is expected to finalize the appointment in a vote this week.