Ohio Dem: ‘I think it’s time for us to move in another direction’ in leadership

by Megan Keller - 09/02/18 12:45 PM ET

Rep. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) said Sunday that Democrats need new leadership in the House if they take control of the lower chamber in the midterms, adding that he hasn’t ruled out a run for Speaker.

“I think we do need new leadership,” Ryan told CNN’s “State of the Union.”

When asked if he was the one to provide it, Ryan answered, “I’m not sure. I’m not closing the door on it, but I think it’s time for us to move in another direction.”

“I thought that 18 months ago. I think that today,” he added.{mosads}

“If we’re going to reach out … to those independent voters, I think we do need some new people going out to make the case.”

Ryan, who challenged House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) in a private caucus vote in 2016, has called for a new generation of Democratic leaders.

NBC News reported in August that 57 Democratic House candidates have said they would not back Pelosi for Speaker.

Still, Pelosi has insisted she can maintain her grip on the caucus.

“I have a following in the country that’s unsurpassed by anybody, unless they’re running for president,” Pelosi told The Associated Press last month. “I can take the heat and that’s why I stay in the kitchen.”