House Democrats Remake Their Caucus

Punchbowl News: “Here’s the thing to remember: Challenges like this don’t happen spontaneously, especially in the seniority-obsessed House Democratic Caucus.”

“These shots at the top of the committee structure only come after a tacit nod from the House Democratic leadership. Sources close to House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Whip Katherine Clark and House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar have said that the caucus is to ‘work its will’ in selecting ranking members.”

“In other words, the Democratic leadership is providing absolutely no cover to its lawmakers in top committee slots.”

“For all of its perceived strengths — gender, racial and ethnic diversity — House Democrats have a huge structural inefficiency. Unlike Republicans, who turn over their committee chairs or ranking members every six years, Democrats don’t have term limits. Some senior House Democrats remain atop their panels for years or even decades.”