When Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia defeated Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez for the ranking member position on the House Oversight Committee last year, I lamented it as a missed opportunity for congressional Democrats. Connolly, 75, announced last week that he'll be stepping away from the role for health reasons, offering the caucus a fresh shot at promoting a younger voice to helm the investigative panel. Unfortunately, it's already looking like it will be another win for the old guard, as the party clings to a seniority system that no longer serves them.
It is to Connolly's credit that he won the role fair and square in a vote among House Democrats in December, defeating Ocasio-Cortez in a secret ballot vote of 131-84. The caucus's powerful Steering Committee had thrown its support behind Connolly, as had former Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California. But as Politico reported at the time, the decision for many members was based less on who would be the most effective political messenger atop the most overtly political committee than on time served.
In stepping aside, Connolly has renewed the debate among Democrats of age and experience versus youth and energy in countering President Donald Trump’s agenda.
This is a preview of Hayes Brown's latest column. Read the full column here. |
