Petition Against Hakeem Jeffries Garners Half a Million Signatures

A petition urging House Democrats to withhold support from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for the next Speaker role has amassed 500,000 signatures. The petition’s creator, Nicole Whitted, launched this initiative following the Democrats’ significant midterm election victory, which resulted in the party gaining both the Senate and the House of Representatives. This event is set to usher in a new Senate Majority Leader and Speaker of the House.

The petition describes Jeffries as part of the “Democratic establishment”, signaling ongoing pressure on Democratic leaders from the party’s left wing regarding personal and policy choices. Nicole Whitted, who is an author and has over 210,000 followers on TikTok, is the driving force behind this petition.

Petition Highlights

The petition, titled “House Democrats: CHOOSE A NEW SPEAKER,” calls for a competitive election for the Speaker of the House. It argues that Jeffries is not the ideal candidate and suggests the Speaker should represent Democratic voters rather than the party’s establishment. The aim is for the 120th Congress to select an alternative candidate to Jeffries in January 2027.

In a TikTok video promoting the petition, which has received over 40,000 likes, Whitted voiced her opinion that Jeffries is unsuited for the role. She highlighted a meeting between Jeffries and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, as well as a statement by Representative Haley Stevens, to support her argument.

“After historic wins on Tuesday, I believe the Democratic Party and our country as a whole is at a crossroads,” Whitted stated. Her opposition stems from concerns over leadership that aligns with voters and accountability.

Criticism and Endorsements

Some Democrats elected to the House, including members aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America, have expressed concerns about Jeffries’ potential speakership. Critics such as William Lawrence of Michigan and Chris Rabb from Pennsylvania voiced their desire for an alternative choice.

On the other hand, Jeffries has received endorsement from influential figures, including New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, affirming continued support for his leadership bid.

Next Speaker Election

Jeffries officially declared his candidacy for Speaker through a formal announcement. If successful, he would become the first Black Speaker in U.S. history. The process involves an internal selection among House Democrats, followed by a vote in the full House, requiring a majority for election.

The new Speaker must be elected before the House can proceed with standard legislative functions, necessitating a majority of 218 representatives’ votes.

Broader Calls for Change

Calls for new leadership extend beyond the House, with some progressives also voicing opposition to leadership by NY Senator Chuck Schumer in the Senate. Figures like Minnesota senator-elect Peggy Flanagan and Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin have publicly remarked on the need for leadership change.