NEW: AOC’s Bid To Lead Key Committee Officially Crushed By Wide Margin

In a private vote highlighting ongoing tensions within the Democratic ranks, Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) defeated Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) to secure the nomination for ranking member of the influential House Oversight Committee.

The 131-84 vote decided by Democrats in the lower chamber dealt a decisive blow to Ocasio-Cortez’s aspirations for a role that would have elevated her voice within the party and granted her a larger platform for oversight of federal agencies. Last night, Ocasio-Cortez also lost the vote taken by members of the Steering and Policy Committee, which represented an endorsement for Connolly by party leadership.

Connolly, 74, a veteran legislator known for his sharp questioning in hearings, drew significant support based on his tenure and reputation as a steady communicator. His win comes as Democrats navigate generational divides and competition for key committee roles. The outcome also adds to a reshuffling taking place within the party, where several younger members are challenging the old guard for leadership positions.

Spain, Madrid – 30 June, 2022: U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly attends the NATO summit in Madrid, Spain.

Following the vote, Ocasio-Cortez was seen embracing Connolly in a show of graciousness, according to Punchbowl News reporter John Bresnahan.

AOC very gracious, hugged Connolly after vote https://t.co/sGxAuyxpyh

— John Bresnahan (@bresreports) December 17, 2024

Ocasio-Cortez, 35, a leading voice among progressives, had hoped to bring her outsized influence to the House Oversight Committee, where the ranking member plays a pivotal role in shaping legislation and holding the federal government accountable. The defeat marks a significant moment for the New York congresswoman, whose rise in Democratic politics has been defined by her ability to galvanize a younger, more progressive base.

The House Oversight Committee remains one of Congress’s most consequential panels. It is responsible for ensuring efficiency and accountability in federal agencies. As ranking member, Connolly will navigate the committee’s agenda while serving as the Democrats’ chief spokesperson in high-profile hearings.

Washington, DC USA 02-28-2024: Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez arrives for the Hunter Biden deposition on Capitol Hill

His bid for this influential role came after Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) opted to seek the lead Democratic position on the Judiciary Committee. Connolly has solidified his standing within the party by aligning with essential groups like the New Democrat Coalition and maintaining robust relationships, including with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). Pelosi reportedly worked against AOC’s bid to become the top Democrat on the influential House Oversight Committee. Pelosi backed the veteran, preferring his experience and traditional approach to oversight matters.

Looking ahead, Democrats aim to utilize the Oversight Committee as a countermeasure against the incoming Trump administration.

“Gerry’s a young 74, cancer notwithstanding,” said Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) on Tuesday, a staunch supporter of Connolly.

Connolly has represented Virginia’s 11th congressional district since 2009, a diverse and affluent area in Northern Virginia, including Fairfax County. Before entering Congress, he worked for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and held roles in the private sector. As Chair of the Subcommittee on Government Operations and a senior member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Connolly has been vocal about safeguarding U.S. relations with NATO allies and addressing cybersecurity threats from adversaries like Russia and China.

On healthcare, he supported the Affordable Care Act and consistently championed abortion. Environmentally, he aligns with progressive agendas to combat climate change and protect natural resources. Throughout the Trump administration, Connolly emerged as a leading critic, particularly concerning foreign interference and executive actions.

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