Speaking of congressional leadership, I found the following a bit amusing (via Democracy Now: Rep.-elect Don Leonard Says Senior Dems Threatened to Make His Life “Living Hell” over Jeffries Vote).

On Tuesday, Democratic Congressmember-elect Don Leonard of Ohio said in a social media post that he’d met with senior House Democrats and told them he’ll only support Jeffries for House speaker on two conditions: a vote on a constitutional amendment overturning Citizens United, and an end to U.S. support for the war in Iran and aid to Israel. Leonard says, in response, the House Democrats threatened to undermine his political career.

First, the notion that a Representative-elect is in a position to make very specific demands of caucus leadership is kind of silly as a general matter, but especially when the incoming caucus will have 250+ seats. The math is such that Jeffries does not have to worry about a sole member.

Second, in his video, Leonard complains that he wants small-d democracy in the party, but is basically asserting that one guy should get what he wants. If he can get the votes in the caucus, he can get what he wants–that’s how small-d democracy works.

Third, yes, bucking leadership means lousy committee assignments and might mean no material support for a reelection bid. Welcome to the big leagues!

I must confess, I have a hard time taking too seriously a direct-to-phone vertical video as proof of much of anything.

I am all for some House members with some fight, but maybe get your bearings before you start trying to take over the place!