Ohio’s ambitious Rep. Tim Ryan said today that Democrats need new leadership in the House if they take control of the lower chamber in the midterms, adding that he hasn’t ruled out a run for Speaker.
“I think we do need new leadership,” Ryan said. “I’m not closing the door on it, but I think it’s time for us to move in another direction.”
“I thought that 18 months ago. I think that today,” he added.
“If we’re going to reach out to those independent voters, I think we do need some new people going out to make the case.”
This isn’t new for Ryan, who challenged House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) in a private caucus vote in 2016.
While Ryan is widely seen as lacking the negotiating experience, policy chops, or fundraising acumen to be speaker, it does point out that many younger members of the House are ready to put Pelosi behind them.
NBC News reported in August that 57 Democratic House candidates have said they would not back Pelosi for Speaker.
Still, Pelosi has insisted she can maintain her grip on the caucus.
“I have a following in the country that’s unsurpassed by anybody, unless they’re running for president,” Pelosi said. “I can take the heat and that’s why I stay in the kitchen.”