In January, Democrats will control both chambers of Congress, significantly expanding their ability to conduct oversight and shape legislative priorities.
Democrats across the country have campaigned to victory on promises of bringing down the cost of living, reversing Medicaid cuts and restoring ACA subsidies, addressing tariffs, and stopping the war in Iran. It’s important to note that with Trump still in office, major legislation will be difficult to pass through a veto-proof majority. However, it sets Democrats up with considerable leverage to push Republicans to address broadly popular issues (like lowering fuel prices) or, put them on record as voting against it.
With Democrats back in the majority, several members of the Washington state congressional delegation, who currently serve as ranking members on their committees, are expected to be stepping into significant new roles. While not confirmed officially, below are potential changes that could happen within the delegation:
- Senator Patty Murray is expected to become Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, the powerful committee in charge of writing the annual federal funding legislation.
- Senator Maria Cantwell is expected to become Chair of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.
- Rep. Adam Smith is expected to become Chair of the House Armed Services Committee.
- Rep. Rick Larsen is expected to become Chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
- Rep. Pramila Jayapal is expected to become Chair of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement subcommittee within the House Judiciary committee.
Several other House members have opportunities to gain subcommittee leadership positions.
What do these changes mean?
Committee leadership comes with significant power and authority. Chairs have responsibility to set hearing schedules, determine markup of bills, lead oversight investigations into federal agencies and administrations, and have significant control over general committee staff, resources, and negotiations. These changes position Washington’s Members of Congress in an influential position on a wide range of issues.
When will we officially know new leadership positions?
Congressional Democrats will begin organizing their caucuses and selecting leadership positions between now and the end of December through various processes. On January 3, the 120th Congress begins and the new leadership will take effect.