House Democrats jockey behind the scenes to become party’s top investigator of Trump administration

Rep. Gerry Connolly’s unexpected announcement of his impending resignation as the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee has sparked a race to fill his position. The competition could see established party members facing off against a new wave of progressives who have been vocal critics of President Donald Trump.

Connolly, aged 75, shared on Monday that his esophageal cancer had returned following difficult treatments and that he would not be seeking re-election next year. This decision came shortly after he secured the committee post by defeating Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. If Democrats regain the House in the upcoming midterm elections, the ranking member would be in line to chair the committee and issue subpoenas to the Trump administration.

Rep. Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts, a senior Democrat on the panel, has stepped in as interim ranking member while Connolly focuses on his health. Lynch stated that Connolly has promised to endorse him for the role when it becomes available. A number of progressive members on the committee have expressed interest in the Oversight Committee post and could potentially vie for the position if Ocasio-Cortez decides not to run.

Ocasio-Cortez, who left the Oversight Committee for a spot on the Energy and Commerce Committee, could potentially seek the position but would require a waiver from the House Democratic caucus. While Ocasio-Cortez has not indicated her interest in the role, securing it could bolster her national ambitions by providing a platform to investigate and challenge the Trump administration.

Lynch emphasized that it may not be straightforward for Ocasio-Cortez to be granted the waiver to run for the position. Democratic leaders have refrained from commenting on the matter, stating that Connolly is still technically the ranking member and no vacancy currently exists on the Oversight Committee.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Oversight Committee leadership, various members are focusing on supporting Connolly during this time. Lawmakers are rallying behind Connolly and wishing him a speedy recovery, with Rep. Khanna and Rep. Mfume highlighting their close working relationships with Connolly and expressing their well-wishes for his health.