U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) has withdrawn from the race to become the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, marking a second setback in her pursuit of higher leadership roles within Congress.
Crockett, a freshman lawmaker representing Dallas, confirmed her decision early Tuesday in a text to The Texas Tribune, just hours before House Democrats were scheduled to vote on the new ranking member. Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) is widely expected to win the post after securing backing from the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. He is competing against Reps. Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.) and Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.).
The Oversight Committee, one of the most powerful in Congress, is tasked with investigating government operations and holding federal agencies accountable. Should Democrats regain the House majority in 2026, the committee would likely lead investigations into a possible second Trump administration.
Crockett entered the race following the May death of Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), the committee’s former top Democrat. In a letter to colleagues, she called for a bolder approach to counter Republican narratives and hold the Trump administration accountable. “Every hearing, every investigation, every public moment must serve the dual purpose of accountability and must demonstrate why a House Democratic majority is essential for America’s future,” she wrote.
Despite strong support among progressive and younger members, Crockett’s assertive messaging style was viewed by some in the caucus as too combative. She previously drew criticism for calling Texas Gov. Greg Abbott “Governor Hot Wheels,” referencing his use of a wheelchair following a paralyzing accident 40 years ago.
Crockett’s exit underscores a broader generational shift in Democratic leadership. The Oversight race was framed as a contest between younger members—Crockett, 44, and Garcia, 47—and older contenders, Lynch, 70, and Mfume, 76.
The withdrawal marks Crockett’s second recent defeat in her push for a leadership role. In November, she lost her bid for chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee. Still, the outspoken Dallas Democrat remains a prominent voice in her party, with a growing national profile and strong social media presence.
