Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, the oldest person in Congress, announced her intention to seek re-election in 2026, emphasizing the importance of her seniority. Several other Democratic representatives, including David Scott and John Larson, also plan to run again despite concerns about their health. This contrasts with Rep. Jerry Nadler’s decision to retire, citing the need for “generational change” within the Democratic Party. Notably, the majority of Congress members over 80 are Democrats, and several have recently passed away in office.
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The Independent has reported that several elderly Democratic lawmakers, including D.C. Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton, plan to seek reelection despite concerns about their health and declining faculties. This trend contrasts with recent statements from figures like New York Representative Jerry Nadler, who cited the need for generational change in the party as his reason for not seeking reelection. The article notes the age and seniority of several other members of Congress and highlights that some older members have expressed that they do not plan to retire. This reluctance to step aside appears to be a particularly prominent trait among Democrats, which has caused consternation within the party.
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Recent polling and focus groups suggest growing dissatisfaction among Democratic voters with the party’s leadership. This discontent echoes the sentiment that fueled the Tea Party movement within the Republican Party. The recent victory of Zohran Mamdani in the New York City mayoral primary signals a potential anti-establishment energy within the Democratic enclaves. This could lead to a shift in the party’s priorities, potentially targeting older incumbents and demanding more aggressive action against opposing parties. Additionally, organizations supporting younger candidates are experiencing a surge in interest, indicating a desire for generational change within the party.
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Mamdani and Other Younger Democrats Are No Longer Waiting Their Turn. It’s a sentiment that’s been brewing for a while, a realization that the old rules of political succession just don’t apply anymore, or perhaps, never did. Mamdani, at 33, is a prime example, and the fact that someone of his age is making serious waves in the political arena is a testament to the changing tides. The idea of “turns” in the Democratic Party seems like a relic of the past, a system that has, for many, become a stagnant and ineffective mess.
The core of the problem lies in seniority, a system that’s kept a generation of potential leaders on the sidelines.… Continue reading
Sixty-two percent of Democrats believe their party leadership needs replacing, according to a recent survey. This significant number underscores a widespread dissatisfaction with the current leadership structure and raises crucial questions about the party’s future direction. The sentiment reflects a growing sense of urgency among many Democrats who feel the party isn’t effectively addressing critical challenges or capitalizing on opportunities.
This dissatisfaction isn’t confined to a single issue or demographic. Many feel the current leadership lacks the skills and vision needed to navigate the current political landscape. Concerns extend to the party’s handling of internal conflicts, specifically accusations of infighting that prioritizes internal disputes over unified action against opposing political forces.… Continue reading
Amanda Litman’s Run for Something has recruited and trained over 1,500 progressive candidates under 40 since 2017, aiming to revitalize the Democratic party. Following the 2024 election loss, a younger generation of Democrats is challenging incumbents and advocating for systemic change, a shift Litman anticipated. This includes open conversations about the need for older leaders to retire gracefully, allowing for a smoother transition of power. Litman argues that primaries, while sometimes avoided, are crucial for improving political skills and identifying effective leaders capable of confronting the challenges ahead.
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DNC Vice Chair David Hogg endorsed Rep. Jasmine Crockett, praising her combative political style and authenticity, amid the Democratic Party’s post-election identity crisis. This endorsement comes as Hogg faces potential removal from his position due to procedural issues surrounding his election. Crockett, known for her strong criticism of President Trump and controversial statements, is vying for a leadership role on the House Oversight Committee. Hogg’s support signals a potential shift within the Democrats towards a more confrontational approach.
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President Trump’s spending bill passed the House by a narrow 215-214 margin, thanks in part to the recent deaths of three House Democrats. Had these Democrats been alive and voted, the bill would have failed. The absences highlighted concerns about the aging Democratic leadership and the party’s image as out of touch, prompting criticism regarding the lack of generational change within the party. This issue is further exacerbated by the significant number of older House Democrats planning to seek reelection.
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In the past two and a half years, eight Democratic members of Congress have died while in office, raising concerns within the party. This includes three House Democrats in the last three months alone, highlighting the impact of age and potential structural factors within the party. The average age of Democrats in the previous Congress significantly exceeded that of Republicans, potentially contributing to this trend. While coincidence is possible, the deaths fuel ongoing internal discussions regarding age and leadership within the Democratic Party.
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Rep. Gerry Connolly, a Virginia Democrat and Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee, passed away peacefully at age 75. His death follows a recurrence of esophageal cancer, which he had previously overcome, prompting his recent decision to forgo reelection in 2026 and step down from his committee leadership role. Connolly served his district for 14 years and previously held a prominent position on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Tributes poured in from colleagues, highlighting his dedicated public service and impactful legacy in Northern Virginia.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood