Ocasio-Cortez Declines Bid for House Oversight Leadership

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced she will not pursue the top Democratic position on the House Oversight Committee, citing the caucus's continued emphasis on seniority for leadership roles. Ocasio-Cortez had previously lost a bid for the post to Rep. Gerry Connolly, who is stepping down due to a recurrence of esophageal cancer. She indicated that, after discussions with colleagues, it was clear the seniority dynamic remains unchanged and thus she will remain on the Energy and Commerce Committee. Ocasio-Cortez would have required a waiver to return to the Oversight Committee, given current House rules restricting service on multiple exclusive committees. Her decision comes amid ongoing debates within the Democratic caucus about the balance between seniority and bringing in younger leadership. The vacancy for the top Oversight Democrat remains open as the caucus considers its next steps.