The House of Representative continued to work on their leadership selection for the new Congress. Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) came a step closer to securing the speakership when the new Congress starts on January 3, 2019. She was approved by the Democratic caucus but technically the entire House selects the next Speaker. That requires at least 218 votes or a majority of those present and voting. Some Democrats have said they would not support her return during the campaign but there is no specific candidate opposition. Some member could abstain in which case she would not need 218 votes.
In other developments, the House will have two women heading up the House Appropriations Committee with Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY) switching from Ranking Member to chairperson and Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-TX) winning out over some other Committee Republicans to become ranking member.
Congressperson Karen Bass (D-CA) became chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). Ms. Bass is known to the child welfare community for her leadership on child welfare policy and she co-chairs the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) was chosen for the head of the House Democratic Caucus, considered the number 5 spot in House leadership.
The House also released their schedule for 2019. It can be found here.
