Congressman Joseph Crowley was elected by his colleagues today to serve as the chairman of the House Democratic Caucus for the 115th Congress. This is the fourth-highest ranking position within the caucus.
Crowley is the nine-term representative from the 14th Congressional District of New York, which includes sections of Astoria, Sunnyside, Woodside, Jackson Heights, Corona, Flushing, College Point and the Bronx.
“I am humbled by the support of my colleagues and I look forward to serving them as the chairman of the Democratic Caucus,” he said in a statement. “We are at a critical juncture, facing unprecedented challenges and attacks on our core principles. We must focus our energies on charting a path for our caucus and the American people. As chair, I look forward to creating a platform for all of our members to share idea[s], engage one another, and work collectively to establish a way forward.”
Congressman Xavier Becerra, who represents Los Angeles County, previously held the position for four years.
Crowley was nominated for chairman of the House Democratic Caucus by Congress members Robin Kelly of Illinois, Joe Kennedy of Massachusetts and two Queens lawmakers: Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez and Congressman-elect Tom Suozzi.
The Hill reported earlier this month that House Democrats were attempting to convince Crowley, currently the vice chair of the Democratic caucus, to run against Pelosi, the former speaker of the house, for the party’s leadership in the House.
Nancy Pelosi defeated Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan this morning to serve another term as the house minority leader, according to NPR. Pelosi has held this position since 2003.
