‘She needs to take a seat’

Some House Democrats are expressing frustration with Rep. Nancy Pelosi’s comments on Vice President Kamala Harris’ loss to President-elect Donald Trump on Election Day. One lawmaker believes it’s time for Pelosi to step back.

Pelosi, 84, stirred controversy within the Democratic caucus when she suggested to the New York Times that President Biden should have dropped out sooner to allow for other candidates in the race. This led to discussions about having an “open primary” to replace Biden on the Democratic ticket.

“She needs to take a seat,” a senior Democratic lawmaker told Axios in response to Pelosi’s remarks.

Another House Democrat took issue with Pelosi speaking for the party instead of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

“Hakeem has been tremendously graceful and respectful of her, but I don’t think she is being respectful of him,” a member of the Congressional Black Caucus expressed.

“I understand that this is a difficult transition for her, not being the leader, but she is not,” the lawmaker added. “She needs to understand what her new role is.”

The report mentioned that Pelosi still holds influence over House Democrats, which is why the lawmakers spoke anonymously to the outlet.

A spokesperson for Pelosi emphasized her respect for Leader Hakeem Jeffries and praised the progress made by House Democrats under his leadership.

“Speaker Pelosi is immensely proud of Leader Hakeem Jeffries and his masterful stewardship of the House Democratic Caucus,” the spokesperson stated. “We all should praise the excellent progress made by House Democrats under his leadership.”

Pelosi was replaced as leader of the Democratic caucus by Jeffries after the party lost its House majority in the 2022 midterm elections.