House Democrats rejected Rep. Nancy Pelosi's choice for majority leader today, and elected Rep. Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland to the post. Pelosi supported Rep. John P. Murtha of Pennsylvania. Hoyer won on a vote of 149-86.
Hoyer's election came after House Democrats made Pelosi the next speaker of the House. But just in case Pelosi got too uppity, they slammed her choice for the No. 2 position and gave it to Hoyer instead. Seems like the new speaker should be able to pick her second in command. But her party thought it would be more fun to embarrass her on this vote.
Valley House Democrats Dennis Cardoza of Merced and Jim Costa of Fresno supported Hoyer.
I believe it is an example of House Democrats selecting someone that will work well with the House, not just be Pelosi's friend.
This was a great move by the Dems... Mr. Murtha is NOT the face the party needs on television all the time. While the war helped the Dems with the previous election, they understand the public is fickle and when events turn around (at least I hope they do) then Mr. Murtha will be on the wrong side of the issue.