Budzinski Elected Chair of the New Democrat Coalition, Largest Ideological Caucus in the House

Resources / Press Share on Budzinski Elected Chair of the New Democrat Coalition, Largest Ideological Caucus in the House Nov 10, 2026 Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) was elected to serve as the Chairwoman of the New Democrat Coalition for the 120th Congress . As Chair, Rep. Budzinski will lead the growing coalition of 142 Members and Members-Elect in the 120th Congress working to lower costs and fight corruption. “I’m grateful to my colleagues for the trust they’ve placed in me – I’m ready to get to work. The New Democrat Coalition will prove who we are and what we are about: results over rhetoric and finding practical solutions to deliver for the people we serve,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “Working families across the country are being squeezed by the cost of healthcare, utilities, housing, childcare and groceries. It’s clear that we must act now to put money back in people’s pockets, grow the middle class, and root out corruption. As Chair, I look forward to ensuring that the largest ideological caucus in Congress wields its influence to deliver on this mandate.” Budzinski currently serves as the Coalition’s Vice Chair of Policy for the 119th Congress and previously served as Freshman Leadership Representative for the 118th Congress. Chair-elect Budzinski and the four Vice Chairs-elect will oversee the largest group of New Dem members in the Coalition’s 30-year history, including a record-breaking freshman class of 40 members. New Dem Leadership for the 120th Congress: Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) – Chair Congressman Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) – Vice Chair for Policy Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-08) – Vice Chair for Outreach Congressman Greg Landsman (OH-01) – Vice Chair for Member Services Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) – Vice Chair for Communications Share on