The Committee on Armed Services exercises legislative oversight for the nation's military, including the Department of Defense, military research and development, nuclear energy activities, and benefits for members of the armed forces. It also handles the confirmation of presidential nominees for senior defense and military positions.

The Committee on Natural Resources considers legislation related to public lands, national parks, wildlife, fisheries, mining, energy resources on federal lands, and Native American affairs. It oversees agencies like the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service within the Department of Agriculture.