Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-CA) has been tapped to become the next Attorney General of California, which would end his bid to become the next top Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee in the wake of current Ranking Member Sandy Levin's (D-MI) announcement that he would step down from the post. Levin, who originally supported Becerra as his successor to lead the Democratic side of the Committee, has now endorsed Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) for the position.

"The Ways and Means Committee will … be in good hands with Rich Neal as the Ranking Member and I endorse his election," Levin said in a statement, which is attached. "He has the experience, dedication, and commitment to lead our committee. He has a track record of giving voice to working America and I look forward to working with him to counter reckless proposals by President-elect Trump or House Republicans that seek to turn back the progress we have made."

Becerra released his own statement announcing that he accepted the AG nomination from Gov. Jerry Brown, to replace Kamala Harris, who has been elected to the Senate for the next Congress. Press reports noted that Becerra must be confirmed by the state and Assembly, though both are controlled by fellow Democrats.

An earlier Levin statement said he was stepping down as Ways and Means ranking member in part to allow younger members to "assume the mantle of leadership" and take efforts necessary to confront a new Republican president and Republican-controlled House.

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ATTACHMENT

Levin Statement