Stephen Lynch Eyeing One Of Congress's Most Powerful Posts

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Stephen Lynch of South Boston is looking to succeed the late Elijah Cummings as head of the House's Oversight and Reform Committee, potentially positioning another Massachusetts politician in a major national role as the impeachment inquiry into President Trump lumbers on.

The chairman of the committee is one of the most powerful voices in the House. That person has the power to look into a broad number of issues as the House's top investigative committee.

"While we are facing momentous challenges before our Committee, including impeachment, we have many energetic and talented members and staff who are ready and eager to protect and defend the Constitution and the rule of law," Lynch, a Democrat, said in a statement Monday.

The post has been vacant since Cummings died last week at 68. He represented Maryland's 7th district since 1996.

The only other person to declare interest in the position is Rep. Jackie Speier of California. Carolyn Maloney of New York is acting chair.

Lynch represents South Boston, Quincy, Dedham, Braintree, Brockton, Weymouth, parts of Raynham and several other communities in Norfolk and Plymouth counties.

Lynch is looking to be the third leader of one of the major House committees from Massachusetts. Richard Neal of Springfield helms the Ways and Means Committee and Jim McGovern of Worcester leads the Rules Committee.

Ayanna Pressley of Boston, who sits on the Oversight and Reform Committee, is one of the most highly visible freshman members of the House, while Katherine Clark of Melrose is the sixth-ranking Democrat in the House as the vice chair of the caucus.