California Democrat kicks off next generational fight in the House as he eyes top Oversight position

California Democratic Rep. Robert Garcia on Thursday officially launched his bid to become the next ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, kicking off the panel's next generational fight. 

The position became vacant earlier this month after the late Virginia Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly died at the age of 75. Connolly defeated 35-year-old New York Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for the post earlier this year, which was partly because of his seniority on the committee. 

Garcia is expected to face other lawmakers who have been on the panel longer, including acting Ranking Member Stephen Lynch. Garcia is 47-years-old and Lynch is 70. 

Maryland Democratic Rep. Kweisi Mfume, who is 77, has also expressed interest in the role, according to Axios.

“From the Trump administration’s attacks on the rule of law, weaponizing the government against its critics and decimating the services our constituents rely upon — there is a clear and immediate threat to our democracy,” Garcia wrote in a “dear colleague” letter. “As citizens, patriots and members of Congress, we must organize, fight back, and defend the principles of freedom, equality and justice. I’m ready to help lead that fight.”

The congressman cited his background as the former mayor and chief executive of Long Beach, California, where his team used “audits and data to drive reform, launched new technology to make city services more accessible and modernized how City Hall operates," The Hill reported. 

“We showed that government can be both progressive and effective,” Garcia wrote. “Driven by values powered by innovation, and always working with the people we serve.”  

A vote on Connolly's replacement as Democratic leader of House Oversight is expected to take place on June 24. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.