Connolly Seeks to Replace Raskin as Leading Democrat on House Oversight Committee

On December 3, Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) declared his candidacy for the leading Democrat position on the House Oversight Committee.

In a correspondence addressed to his colleagues, Connolly emphasized that Democrats on the Oversight Committee must form “an aggressive team focused on defending American democracy from President [Donald] Trump and promoting a Democratic agenda that resonates with our constituents.”

“Our constituents must be assured that we will stand up for their priorities and fight for them,” he asserted.

Connolly serves Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, home to many federal employees.

Trump has expressed intentions to reduce the federal government’s size and to “dismantle government bureaucracy.”

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This initiative could be partially executed by reclassifying federal civil servants under a Schedule F designation, which would facilitate their dismissal. There are robust civil service protections in place that complicate the termination of federal employees.

Connolly pointed out that he has introduced legislation aimed at prohibiting Schedule F.

“The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is a space I know well; right now, we require an expert who can counter the most severe Republican assaults on our institutions and enact necessary reform,” he stated.

Having served in Congress since January 2009, Connolly highlighted his experience, including 16 years on the committee, where he currently holds the position of vice ranking member.

If he becomes the ranking member, Connolly expressed his intent to “enhance the talent and diversity of our caucus.”

Moreover, he stated he would focus on “delving into issues, empowering our members fully, and managing the wide array of policies and politics that our committee encounters.”

Connolly described himself as “a dedicated committee workhorse committed to the challenging and often intricate task of governance.”