Dozens of Democratic Candidates Decline to Back Hakeem Jeffries as Party Leadership Faces Growing Tension

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Since succeeding former Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022, Jeffries has been widely seen as a unifying figure, maintaining near-unanimous support within the House Democratic caucus. But the new survey suggests that harmony could be tested as the next Congress approaches — particularly as progressive voices push for a more confrontational stance against Republicans and a stronger commitment to left-leaning priorities.

Of the candidates surveyed by Axios:

  • 20 said outright they would not vote for Jeffries as party leader or speaker.
  • 5 more indicated they were likely to oppose him.
  • 57 declined to commit, calling it too early to decide or expressing concerns about the party’s messaging and direction.
  • Only 24 candidates said they would definitely support him, while seven said they were likely to do so.

The numbers reveal a noticeable fracture among the next generation of Democratic hopefuls — especially those aligning with the progressive wing of the party.

Growing Frustration on the Left

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