Democrats slammed as ‘hospice’ party as member deaths impact crucial House vote

After another devastating loss with the defeat of the Trump-backed “Big, Beautiful Bill” in Congress, liberals are pointing fingers at Democratic Party leaders for holding onto power for too long — even until death.

Just before the vote on the BBB, Rep. Gerry Connolly, a prominent figure in the Democratic Party from Fairfax County, Virginia, passed away after battling esophageal cancer. Connolly had previously announced his plans to retire at the end of his term in 2026.

In the wake of Connolly’s passing, many liberal analysts and consultants criticized the reluctance of older Democrats to step down from their positions. Rebecca Katz, from FIGHT Agency, took to social media to express her frustration, highlighting the impact of Democrats dying in office rather than retiring voluntarily. The final vote on the BBB, which passed by a slim 215-214 margin, served as a stark reminder of the consequences of clinging to power.

The New Republic published a piece detailing the recent trend of elderly Democrats dying in office, including Reps. Raul Grijalva and Sylvester Turner. The article emphasized the need for accountability within the party and the importance of regaining the trust of Democratic voters.

Katz, who has a background in Arizona politics, called for a change in the Democratic Party’s approach to leadership. She stressed the need for hard conversations and a renewed commitment to winning elections.

The Nation also weighed in on the issue, criticizing the Democratic Party for resembling a hospice rather than a political movement seeking to implement an agenda. The party’s failure to define its core values and address the aging leadership was highlighted as a significant concern.

The deaths of Connolly, Grijalva, and Turner during the BBB negotiations underscored the potential impact of retiring in a timely manner. The absence of these experienced lawmakers left a void that could have been filled by new Democratic voices.

While some House Republicans downplayed the significance of Connolly’s absence in the vote, the string of Democratic deaths in office raised questions about the party’s future direction. With several aging lawmakers still in prominent positions, the Democratic Party faces a critical juncture in defining its identity and securing its electoral success.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the need for a generational shift within the Democratic Party becomes increasingly apparent. The party must navigate a delicate balance between honoring its longstanding leaders and embracing a new wave of diverse voices to remain relevant and competitive in the modern political arena.