Pelosi Reportedly Working Behind the Scenes to Block Ocasio-Cortez from Key Committee Role
New York Democrat Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is reportedly facing opposition from within her own party, with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said to be quietly maneuvering to keep her from a prominent committee position.
According to a report from Axios, Pelosi is lobbying colleagues to support Virginia Democrat Rep. Gerry Connolly over Ocasio-Cortez for the role of top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee.
“The fight comes as several septuagenarian committee ranking members are facing desperate battles against – or yielding to – younger challengers,” Axios reported, citing tensions within the party.
A senior House Democrat told the outlet, “Many members are concerned about [the] precedent these races are setting.”
Pelosi’s efforts to secure support for Connolly have reportedly included personal outreach to colleagues, with two House Democrats confirming her involvement.
Unexpected Support from Republican Oversight Chair
Interestingly, Ocasio-Cortez has found an ally in Republican House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer. During a CNN interview, Comer spoke favorably about Ocasio-Cortez despite their stark policy differences.
“I’m a big AOC fan,” Comer said. “I don’t agree with very much of her policy, but I think she’s a good person and very well-spoken.” He added, “I think AOC would be great [as ranking member]. … If it’s AOC, I think we’ll have a good working relationship.”
Comer contrasted his potential rapport with Ocasio-Cortez to his strained dealings with the current ranking member, Maryland Democrat Rep. Jamie Raskin, saying, “The Democrats have nowhere to go but up after having Jamie Raskin for the last four years.”
Connolly Makes His Case
Connolly, who has served on the Oversight Committee for 16 years, emphasized his experience as the reason he should hold the ranking member position.
“This election is not about generational change or an age gap. It’s about capability, seasoning, and experience,” Connolly said during an appearance on CNN. “I’ve shown my ability to take the fight to the other side and defend democratic values.”
Connolly highlighted his skills in interrogating witnesses, managing committee responsibilities, and engaging with the media as reasons he believes he’s the right choice for the role.
Pelosi Faces Personal Challenges Amid Political Battle
While navigating this internal party dispute, Pelosi has been dealing with personal setbacks. During a Congressional delegation trip to Luxembourg to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, the former Speaker reportedly fell down a flight of stairs.
“Speaker Emerita Pelosi sustained an injury during an official engagement and was admitted to the hospital for evaluation,” a spokesperson said. Reports indicate she broke her hip.
Despite her injury, Pelosi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to honor the service and sacrifice of American veterans. “She continues to work and regrets that she is unable to attend the remainder of the CODEL engagements,” her office said, adding that she looks forward to returning to the U.S. soon.