Dem
47
GOP
53
The House Oversight Committee has broad powers to investigate anything it wants to and subpoena anyone it wants to. Whoever chairs that committee has a powerful perch to expose wrongdoing and abuse of power. The current chairman is Rep. James Comer (R-KY). He doesn't have a lot of interest in investigating anyone in the administration now, though he used to be keenly interested in investigating Hunter Biden.
The ranking member has no power and it is a pretty useless position. But if the Democrats capture the House in 2026, the ranking member will be in a strong position to become chair. Consequently, a number of Democrats are competing for the position that was occupied by the late Gerry Connolly, who died on May 21. They are Reps. Robert Garcia (CA), Stephen Lynch (MA), and Kweisi Mfume (MD). They are 47, 70 and 76, respectively. This is certain to result in a battle about whether it is time for a new generation of leadership.
More candidates could yet enter the fray. In particular, Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) has expressed interest, but her chances are low since the Black Caucus is supporting Mfume, who has more seniority than she does.
The procedure is for the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee to make a recommendation. Then the full caucus will vote on June 24. (V)