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By Peter Aitken and Gabe Whisnant
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Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas told Politico on Thursday that "she is ready to shine a light on the very dark things taking place in our country under this administration" when asked about a potential run for the party's top Oversight Committee role.
Newsweek reached out to the offices of Crockett and Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Nancy Pelosi of California for comment by email on Thursday afternoon.
Why It Matters
Representative Gerry Connolly of Virginia said Monday that he will step down from the House Oversight Committee and will not run for reelection in 2026 because of his ongoing cancer battle.
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Connolly took the seat after beating out a challenge from Ocasio-Cortez, with reported backing from Pelosi to block her bid and put Connolly in the seat. Connolly defeated Ocasio-Cortez in a 131-84 vote in December.
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What To Know
Representative Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts will temporarily step in when Connolly leaves. Lynch, according to Politico, is also interested in taking over the role, and he is already facing competition.
Crockett, the vice ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, will throw her hat into the ring to take the committee's top post, telling Politico: "I wouldn't want anyone to think that I'm not interested in leading our investigative body while also communicating and educating the country on our findings."
Upon the news that Connolly would step down, Crockett issued a press release, saying: "It has been an absolute honor to serve alongside him—and more than that, to learn from him. As he now steps back to focus on his health, I want him to know that we're lifting him in prayer and sending him strength, healing, and peace. We'll carry the torch forward, but Congressman Connolly's impact will always be felt."
Ocasio-Cortez told reporters Wednesday that she is "weighing" a run for the Democrats' top oversight position. However, the question remains whether she will face the same stiff opposition she did in December.
While Pelosi never endorsed any candidates publicly, she revealed who she intended to vote for and encouraged anyone to run. Only some of the candidates she supported succeeded in their bids, including Connolly.
When asked at a press conference Thursday about his view on the race, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters: "I don't want to speculate about the future of the Oversight Committee."
What People Are Saying
Representative Gerry Connolly, in a letter posted to X: "With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we've accomplished together over 30 years. My loving family and staff sustain me. My extended family—you all have been a joy to serve."
What Happens Next
Jeffries told reporters Thursday that "the rules are pretty clear that when there's a vacancy, the caucus, under the leadership of Chairman Pete Aguilar, would have to call an election within 30 days."
Update 5/1/25, 3:15 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information, context and comment.
Update 5/2/25, 11:22 a.m. ET: This articles has been updated with additional context.
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