Though multiple sources say Crowley likely will run, he probably won’t make any sort of public announcement until after the elections.
“Congressman Crowley’s focus right now is on helping Leader Pelosi and DCCC Chairman Steve Israel win back the majority, and he’s working hard to make that a reality,” an aide to Crowley said.
Becerra’s race for Caucus chairman is anticipated to be as drama-free as these sorts of intraparty affairs get. He is well-liked by colleagues and has been attentive to Member services in his time as vice chairman, sources say. In the past few weeks, Democratic aides unaffiliated with his office say Becerra has kicked up his efforts to build support for his leadership bid. Becerra’s PAC, Leadership of Today & Tomorrow, has raised $234,882 and spent $145,851 on Democratic races through June.
Outside of the set Caucus races, the picture is a lot more complicated.
What happens to Larson, a close ally of Pelosi, is unclear, but he appears interested in remaining in leadership in some capacity. When Democrats were in the majority, the position “assistant to the Speaker” existed and Van Hollen filled it. But that post may be difficult to reinstitute given the “Assistant Leader” role created for Rep. James Clyburn (S.C.). Pelosi gave Clyburn the post after the 2010 elections. The move defused a tense situation in which Clyburn and Hoyer appeared close to challenging each other for the Whip position after leadership slots were reduced in response to the loss of the majority. There is a set budget for leadership offices and staff, and some sources suggested there wouldn’t be enough funds to create another new position if Democrats stay in the minority.
Another potential hitch is that the Caucus still has to vote on the choice for Assistant Leader, which means a Member could decide to challenge Clyburn for the position.
Rep. Bill Cassidy has his blood drawn by Alesha Barbour during a free hepatitis screening in the Rayburn House Office Building hosted by the Congressional Viral Hepatitis Caucus to recognize "National Viral Hepatitis Testing Day."
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