Thread by @burgessev

Durbin didn't become Dem leader. But he's poised to become key player in Biden presidency as whip while leading the Dems on Judiciary. Some think it's too much for one member to do, and liberals pushing for Whitehouse instead

politico.com/news/2020/11/2…

@marianne_levine

@marianne_levine .@fshakir, former Bernie campaign manager says: “Nothing personal against Durbin, but with Feinstein stepping down, I think there’s a need for some new blood and new style and approaches. Sen. Whitehouse could breathe some new energy into the committee,”

@marianne_levine @fshakir .@AdamGreen of PCCC said "Sheldon Whitehouse is one of the most strategic and savvy fighters in the Democratic Caucus. Dick Durbin has a big job as Senate Whip, and we assume he would be thrilled for someone as good as Senator Whitehouse to play a leading role in Judiciary"

@marianne_levine @fshakir @AdamGreen Republicans have stricter rules/term limits. Will Dems look at their rules?

“There needs to be a discussion,” said Sen. Murray “We have a lot of great talent in our caucus and voices that need to be heard and used in leadership so we can be as effective as possible.”

Wow and right after we published Whitehouse put out a statement: “In the wake of Ranking Member Feinstein’s announcement, I look forward to the question of succession on the Senate Judiciary Committee being decided by the caucus. I will abide by the caucus’s decision.”