DeLauro in line to become chair of key committee
WASHINGTON — A panel of House Democrats voted Tuesday afternoon to recommend that U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-3, become chair of the House committee overseeing all federal spending over two other Democratic women running against DeLauro for the job.
The endorsement sets up DeLauro, already a frontrunner, as the likely winner in the full caucus vote Thursday that will decide who gets the Appropriations Committee gavel.
The House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee cast 36 votes in favor of
DeLauro, compared to 11 for U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Florida and six for U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur of Ohio, according to two sources with knowledge of the vote.
“I am honored that this broad-based group on the Steering and Policy Committee sees my experience, ability and relationships as the right fit for the needs of this moment,” DeLauro said in a statement. “I am grateful for their support and humbled by their confidence. This vote is a sign that our caucus is unified and ready for bold, pragmatic actions to deliver results for the American people.”
DeLauro had more than 40 members of Congress whipping support for her candidacy, lead by U.S. Rep. John
Larson, D-1. She is backed by the entire Connecticut delegation.
Before the 2020 election, she raised money and lent campaign support to Democrat incumbents and challengers to help secure the House majority and her own shot to lead.
DeLauro brings 25 years on the committee, leadership over health and labor spending, endorsements from top union names and a tight rapport with Speaker Nancy
Pelosi, D-Calif., and current Appropriations chair Rep. Nita Lowey, D-N.Y.
“People know that I’m a hard worker and I’m a fighter,” said DeLauro in an interview about the race last month. “I’m the only one in the race who has a strong base of support with the various coalitions and parts of our Democratic caucus.”