A secret Sept. 1 meeting may have put Hakeem Jeffries on the map to replace California representative Nancy Pelosi’s role as top House Democrat, Politico reports.
House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn of South Carolina and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York, who chairs the House Democratic Caucus, met up at Clyburn’s office during the summer congressional recess, according to the outlet. (RELATED: UVA’s Sabato Crystal Ball Reclassifies Florida, Georgia Gubernatorial Races One Week From Midterms)
Jeffries became aware of a “quiet campaign” from California Rep. Adam Schiff for the speakership, inspiring the New York congressman to fly out to California and speak with Clyburn. At the meeting, Clyburn reportedly expressed his full support for Jeffries’ bid.
My first column @politico >
How a secret meeting during the summer recess may ensure @hakeemjeffries historic ascent
And lots more on the *other* campaign in the House this fall https://t.co/PbdGQgEcEb
— Jonathan Martin (@jmart) November 4, 2022
“There’s nothing I would ever do to impede the progress of our up-and-coming young Democrats, and I see him as an up-and-coming young Democrat,” Clyburn said of Jeffries, according to Politico. “He knows that, I didn’t have to tell him that — but I did.”
Republicans are currently favored to win the House of Representatives, according to Five Thirty Eight, and are expected to announce leadership positions a week after the midterms. Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy will likely take over Pelosi’s position as speaker, leaving Jeffries with the post of minority leader.
If Democrats fail to hold the House, Pelosi is widely expected to step down — not just from leadership, but from Congress, Politico reported.