"Voters don't trust Jeffries": Democratic leader faces impending fight with the left
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) faces mounting behind-the-scenes frustration from progressive lawmakers and candidates that's likely to burst into public view after the midterm elections. Why it matters: Unless Democrats win a big enough House majority in November to govern without the progressive wing, a Speaker Jeffries would have to contend with the left flank's demands. An…
Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries is grappling with mounting frustration from progressive lawmakers and candidates who don't trust him. Unless Democrats secure a substantial House majority in the upcoming midterm elections, Jeffries may face the demands of the progressive wing. A recent influx of Democratic Socialists of America-aligned members is adding to the existing distrust of Jeffries within the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
Multiple sources, including senior House Democrats, progressive House candidates, and aides, have highlighted Jeffries' recent actions that have left progressives fuming. These include Jeffries' opposition to Medicare for All, a sit-down meeting with President Trump's son-in-law, and a proposal to penalize members who break with leadership on procedural votes.
Progressive lawmakers, constituents, and members of the Progressive Caucus have all expressed their displeasure with Jeffries' leadership, with some even suggesting that he should be replaced. The upcoming elections are expected to bring these tensions to the forefront, as progressives prepare to hold their party accountable for key progressive issues.
Written by urgent.news from Axios's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
