At Least 10 Lawmakers Vie for Tax Panels Ahead of 2026 Midterms

1 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jul 6

At least 10 lawmakers are already maneuvering for seats on Congress’ tax-writing committees months before the 2026 midterms, as retirements and possible promotions open coveted slots.
Six first-time Democratic donors to Rep. Richard Neal’s annual dinner signaled interest in Ways and Means, while vulnerable Midwestern members Hillary Scholten, Kristen McDonald Rivet and Emilia Sykes are competing to replace retiring Rep. Danny Davis.
Ways and Means politics could favor safer-seat Democrats such as Morgan McGarvey and Marilyn Strickland, but gender and Congressional Black Caucus representation may also shape assignments as several departing Democrats are Black members.
On the Senate side, at least four Republicans — John Curtis, Bernie Moreno, David McCormick and Pete Ricketts — are seeking Finance Committee seats, with the GOP Committee on Committees set to weigh the bids.
Control of the House will influence the stakes: if Democrats win it back, four of Ways and Means’ six subcommittees could be chaired by women for the first time.