DeGette drops out of Democratic Caucus vice-chair race

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Denver)  removed her name from consideration for vice chair of the Democratic Caucus on Monday, backing U.S. Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.) instead, Politico is reporting.

"After careful consideration, Congresswoman DeGette has decided she can best serve the Caucus by focusing on her duties as Chief Deputy Whip," DeGette spokesman Kristofer Eisenla told Politico. "With Rep. (Rahm) Emanuel's (D-Ill.) departure and an expanded majority in the House, her skills will be best utilized in whipping. She will be supporting Xavier Becerra for Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus."

Becerra is now unopposed for the vice-chairmanship of the Democratic Caucus. U.S. Rep. John B. Larson (D-Conn.) is currently the only announced candidate for Caucus chair.

DeGette was re-elected to a sixth House term last Tuesday.