What happens if Mary Landrieu ascends to energy post?

U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) (2nd L) talks to Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-LA) (L) prior to the Senate Democratic Policy luncheon at the U.S. Capitol October 15, 2013 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. The U.S. government shutdown is entering its 15th day as the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives remain gridlocked on funding the federal government.

Louisiana's Mary Landrieu would likely take the helm at energy. That could spell big change for the oil and gas industries, as well as environmentalists.

The U.S. Senate may be in for a round of musical chairs early next year — committee chairs, that is.

The Obama Administration has tapped Montana Democrat Max Baucus to be the next ambassador to China. If he is confirmed, that means he vacates his seat as chair of the senate finance committee.

Oregon's Ron Wyden would then ascend to that chairmanship, leaving his position as head of the senate energy and natural resources committee. In turn, Louisiana's Mary Landrieu would likely take the helm at energy. That could spell big change for the oil and gas industries, as well as environmentalists.

Coral Davenport covers energy and the environment for the New York Times.