Politics
Seven Black Caucus lawmakers urge Democrats to keep Waters atop House finance panel
Seven Congressional Black Caucus members on the House Financial Services Committee have endorsed Maxine Waters’ bid to remain the panel’s top Democrat. The 88-year-old California lawmaker faces a declared challenge from Sean Casten, while Bill Foster is weighing a run.
WASHINGTON — Seven Congressional Black Caucus members serving on the House Financial Services Committee signed a letter Monday urging Democrats to support Rep. Maxine Waters as the panel’s top Democrat, adding to a growing effort to keep her in the post she has held since 2013.
The signers are Reps. Gregory Meeks of New York, Emanuel Cleaver of Missouri, Joyce Beatty of Ohio, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, Ritchie Torres of New York and Nikema Williams of Georgia, along with Janelle Bynum of Oregon.
“Congresswoman Waters brings unmatched leadership, institutional knowledge, and a proven record of delivering results for American consumers and hardworking families,” the letter said. It cited her more than three decades in Congress and nearly 14 years leading Democrats on financial-services matters as reasons she is qualified to guide the committee.
Waters, 88, is facing a potential leadership contest from two Illinois Democrats. Rep. Sean Casten has told her he plans to run, while Rep. Bill Foster is considering a challenge but has not made a final decision.
The endorsement comes as Waters’ allies discuss seeking additional support, including a possible letter from a broader group of Financial Services Committee members. Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke, a New York Democrat, has also backed Waters.
Two CBC members leaving the committee were not among the signers: Rep. Cleo Fields of Louisiana is not seeking reelection, and Rep. Al Green of Texas lost his primary. The letter does not represent an endorsement by the full caucus.
The committee’s Democratic leadership contest will determine who serves as the party’s leading voice on a panel with jurisdiction over financial policy and oversight. Waters’ supporters are emphasizing her experience as she faces a possible transition in the committee’s top Democratic post.