Longtime Democrat Won’t Seek Re-Election

Brownley did not give a reason for her decision, but the Democrat said in a statement she was “confident” that House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries would be an excellent speaker of the House if Democrats win back the chamber.

California Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin told reporters, “I am the most obvious person to run for that seat” as she walked off the Assembly floor after Gov. Gavin Newsom’s State of the State speech, saying she was exploring a bid for Brownley’s now-open seat.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries released a statement after Brownley announced she would not seek another term.

“Congresswoman Julia Brownley is a principled public servant and an incredible advocate for the communities that she so ably represents in Ventura and Los Angeles counties,” Jeffries said.

“Brownley’s career has been defined by a commitment to making life better for others,” Jeffries added.