Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) is breaking with tradition and attempting to bypass Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) in her bid for House Democratic Caucus chair, Politico reported.
The move breaks with precedent and the “unwritten rule,” in Politico’s words, that younger lawmakers wait their turn for leadership gigs. At just 48, Jeffries is considered an up-and-coming leader, with many Democrats viewing him as a potential future speaker of the House.
While it is rare for two members of the Congressional Black Caucus to run against each other for the same position, it signals emerging strength and growth within the caucus, Politico noted.
Both sides are confident of their chances. Lee — who is 72 and announced her bid for the position in June — told Politico “I’m gonna win,” and said the “numbers look good.”
Jeffries suggested if there’s ever going to be an appetite for “generational change,” now is the time.
Read Politico’s full report here.
