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House Democrats Reflect on 2024 Election Loss, Internal Debates Begin

Following Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential election loss, House Democrats reflect on the party’s shortcomings in a recent call. While Democratic leaders maintain confidence about House races yet to be decided, party members have begun discussions on what went wrong, hinting at deeper internal divisions.

Lead Art: Democrats felt their leadership set expectations for how the call would go when Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told lawmakers to sit tight, according to two people on the call. | Francis Chung/POLITICO

Democratic Leaders Urge Patience Amid Uncertain House Control

In a private call following the recent elections, House Democratic leaders projected optimism about potentially flipping the House, despite initial results suggesting Republican retention. Democratic Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries encouraged members to remain calm and wait for results from undecided states like Oregon, Arizona, and California.

Internal Blame Game Begins Among House Democrats

With party members disheartened by election outcomes, an internal blame game is emerging. Some Democrats are questioning strategic decisions and messaging, particularly around contentious issues such as “defund the police” and “political correctness.” Many members expressed the need for more assertive internal dialogue.

Diverging Opinions on Campaign Strategy

Different factions within the Democratic Party have voiced their concerns. Representative Tom Suozzi, a centrist Democrat from New York, attributed losses to a perceived focus on political correctness and failure to address “traditional values” issues that resonate with many Americans.

Race Outcomes Tighten as Democrats Seek House Control

Despite flipping some seats in New York, Democrats faced key losses in battleground areas like Michigan and Pennsylvania, narrowing their path to a House majority. California’s outstanding races are expected to be a deciding factor in House control, with close races extending the counting process.

Next Steps for House Democrats: A Tense Caucus Meeting Awaits

Democratic lawmakers are set to reconvene in Washington next week, with further leadership discussions anticipated. Leadership elections, delayed until the following week, could reshape the party’s internal hierarchy depending on the final House results and future strategic direction.

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