Democrats rally behind Hakeem Jeffries for US House Speaker

Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic leader in the U.S. House of Representatives, has officially announced his candidacy for Speaker of the House, according to Axios. Jeffries is expected to secure the position following a decisive Democratic victory in the midterm elections, which would make him the first African American to hold the role. He has led the House Democratic caucus since Nancy Pelosi's retirement in 2022. While some newly elected progressives and Democrats from conservative districts have not committed to supporting him, no serious challenge is anticipated. His leadership team is also expected to be elected uncontested, with several key positions already designated.