In a show of political strength, Nancy Pelosi picked off another defector Wednesday — this time it was a Democrat who had signed his name to a letter just two days prior vowing to vote against the California Democrat on the House floor.
New York Democrat Brian Higgins decided to buck his fellow dissidents in exchange for a commitment from Pelosi that she would prioritize and infrastructure package and let him take a lead role in passing legislation that would lower the age of Medicare eligibility to 50.
“I will vote to elect Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House of Representatives,” Higgins said in a statement released Wednesday. “Power has been too consolidated atop the Caucus and it was my hope that along with like-minded members, we would forge a new leadership structure…”
Higgins wanted California Democrat Karen Bass to make a run for the speakership but Bass is supporting Pelosi and made clear she’s focused on her bid to lead the Congressional Black Caucus. After receiving assurances and pledges by Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck that Democrats would pursue a large infrastructure package and “work” to make “Medicare an option for Americans at age 50,” Higgins said he would support Pelosi’s continued leadership.
Higgins credited Massachusetts Democrat Richard Neal, who is set to chair the House Ways and Means Committee, for brokering conversations with Pelosi.
“Some will ask why I have changed my position,” Higgins said. “The answer is simple: I took a principled stand on issues of vital importance… A principled stand, however, often requires a pragmatic outlook in order to meet with success.”
The stunning flip by Higgins comes a day after Pelosi won over another key agitator to her side. On Tuesday, Pelosi gained the support of her potential rival, Ohio Democrat Marcia Fudge. Fudge was the only member publicly considering a challenge to Pelosi. But seven days after first proposing her possible candidacy, Fudge caved, agreeing to back Pelosi in exchange for a subcommittee chairmanship.
