Two Democrats side with Republicans on procedural vote
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries previewed an ambitious agenda this week, pledging that if Democrats seize majority control from Republicans in the midterm elections, House Democrats plan to “hold the crooks accountable” beginning on “Day One.”
The agenda, as Jeffries previewed it, pairs oversight of President Donald Trump’s administration with legislation to address the high costs of living. Both would be contingent on Democrats winning the House in the midterm elections.
But first, Democratic leaders must keep their ideologically diverse caucus united. The challenge surfaced this week when two Democrats voted with Republicans on a routine procedural vote, angering colleagues and indicating potential party divisions ahead.
The defection offered an early indication of the divisions Jeffries would have to navigate if Democrats win the House.
“His greatest challenge will be governing,” said Ashley Etienne, a former top aide to Nancy Pelosi during her historic tenure as House speaker. Etienne’s assessment pointed to the leadership work of keeping the caucus unified behind the agenda.