GOP's Paul Ryan to chair powerful tax committee, giving him platform for potential 2016 bid

House Republican leaders have chosen Paul Ryan to head the powerful House Ways and Means Committee for the next two years.

The new post could give the Wisconsin Republican a high-profile platform if he decides to run for president in 2016 or beyond.

Ryan was the party's vice presidential nominee two years ago. He has sidestepped questions about his plans for 2016.

His new job will give him a voice on the biggest economic issues facing the country, including taxes, trade, Social Security, health care and social programs.

The House GOP steering committee chose Ryan for the Ways and Means job Tuesday. The entire House Republican conference is expected to approve all the committee chairmen on Wednesday, the vote usually a formality.