Ostensibly, the next speaker of the US House of Representatives will be Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California, the longtime Democratic leader. But a campaign to unseat her has strengthened in recent days, putting her victory in doubt.

The rumblings began before the midterm elections. President Trump has had success running against Pelosi and her policies, leading some Democratic candidates to pledge to oppose her if they were elected.

Last week, Pelosi was still sounding sure of herself, stating in interviews that she was “a hundred percent sure” she’d be the next speaker of the House. There’s no denying that she still has a huge majority behind her. Supporters cite her rich experience in complex political wheeling and dealing — an important advantage when having to work with Trump — and her formidable fundraising skills.

Her detractors, however — members from the party’s progressive wing as well as others who simply believe the time has come to replace the 78-year-old lawmaker — think otherwise. At least 19 Democrats have already declared that they won’t back Pelosi, enough to prevent her from attaining the 218 votes she needs for election.

Who might challenge her for the speaker’s chair? The name that comes up most often is Marcia Fudge, a 66-year-old congresswoman from Ohio and a former chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Fudge hasn’t yet made a final decision, but she doesn’t have much time; on November 28 House Democrats will vote on in a secret ballot contest followed by a full vote in the House of Representatives on January 3.

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 718)