McClatchy: Cummings’ passion and collegiality sought in new impeachment leader

Rep. Elijah Cummings’ death won’t slow the House impeachment inquiry, but it does mean Democrats now have to scramble to find someone with his measured approach and political savvy to help lead the effort.

The Maryland congressman, who died early Thursday, was one of three committee chairmen leading the three-week old inquiry. He headed the House Oversight and Reform Committee, which is conducting the inquiry along with the Foreign Affairs and Intelligence committees.

Cummings’ replacement is likely to be someone who has the congressman’s ability to get along with most of his colleagues. …

The acting House Oversight Committee chair will be Rep. Carolyn Maloney, a New York City Democrat. It was unclear whether she will continue in that role, as others are expected to vie for the job.

“There’s no clear ascendant” to the oversight chair, said Aaron Scherb, director of legislative affairs at Common Cause.