Upton takes chairman bid to Boehner

He wastes no time in sidelining his top competitor for the chairmanship, suggesting Rep. Joe Barton (R-Texas) does not even qualify.

In a clear reference to Barton, he says that "as a result of House Republican reforms that instituted term limits, there is a vacancy for chairman."

Barton disputes that term limits apply and is seeking the gavel anyway, although leadership aides disagree with his interpretation of the rules.

Upton's letter turns to telecom policy to tout his conservative voting record, which has come under attack from Barton's camp, which has suggested he is too moderate for the post.

"I have fought to curb indecency in public broadcasting with the passage of the Brownback/Upton Decency Enforcement Act of 2005 [and] protect our kids from online predators," he writes.

Upton portrays himself as someone who can be a conservative counter to the Democrats, writing that "today the Obama administration is on notice" and "Pelosi never listened to the American people and she never lived up to her promises."

(Notably, references to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi are devoid of any pleasantries, including her title and first name).

Upton also pledges to support pro-life policies and to pass legislation to repeal "ObamaCare."

One pillar of Upton's bid emphasizes a "team work angle." His No. 1 pledge in the letter is to "work with all the members of our conference as one team."

"Our communications strategy will involve every Member and elevate junior members to the spotlight on issues that matter most to me," he says, adding that he will help maintain the Republican majority and expand it.

Members of a GOP steering committee will vote on the chairman position in the coming weeks. BoehnerJohn Andrew BoehnerFeehery: A possible House Speaker conundrum for Democrats Obama on bipartisanship: 'There is a way to reach out and not be a sap' Democrats seek wave to bolster House majority MORE's vote is weighed more than any other member.