In a vote held by the House Democrats’ Steering and Policy Committee, centrist Democrat Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia prevailed over socialist Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York in her bid to become the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee.
According to lawmakers present for the vote, Ocasio-Cortez was defeated by Connolly with a tally of 34 to 27 on Monday.
Before Friday’s vote, the New Democrat Coalition, the largest caucus among Democrats, endorsed Rep. Gerry Connolly for the position of Oversight ranking member.
“We are proud to support our colleague, friend, and fellow New Dem, Rep. Gerry Connolly, for Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability,” the caucus stated. “Rep. Connolly is a skilled and effective communicator, a dedicated workhorse, and well-equipped to lead the committee in defending our Democratic priorities and pushing back against the extremist actions of the Trump administration. He is the right choice to represent the interests of our entire caucus.”
to a report published by Punchbowl News.
The statement praised Rep. Connolly’s 16 years on the committee, highlighting his efforts against GOP conspiracy theories and his push for commonsense legislation. It expressed confidence in his ability to lead with a steady hand as Oversight Democrats prepare to counter challenges from the Trump administration and a GOP-controlled Congress.
Despite Ocasio-Cortez’s defeat, the full Democratic caucus must still vote to confirm the Steering Committee’s choice. According to Punchbowl News, her bid was reportedly blocked by former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who recently secured reelection.
“Pelosi is actively backing Rep. Gerry Connolly over AOC for Oversight ranking member, both publicly and behind the scenes, demonstrating her commitment to the contest,” the publication reported.
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi is actively opposing Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s bid to become the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, according to Punchbowl News. Pelosi has publicly endorsed Rep. Gerry Connolly and is reportedly making calls to bolster his candidacy. Ocasio-Cortez announced her intention to run last week, emphasizing the committee’s critical role in holding administrations accountable and addressing inequality.
The move highlights a long-standing tension between the progressive lawmaker and Pelosi, which began with a 2018 sit-in protest in Pelosi’s office. Ocasio-Cortez later suggested her strained relationship with Pelosi had significantly impacted her experience in Congress.
