Barbara Lee on Losing Dem Caucus Chair: I ‘Absolutely’ Think Ageism, Sexism Played Role in Loss

Rep. Barbara Lee (D., Calif.) on Wednesday attributed her loss in the Democrat caucus chair race to ageism and sexism, saying she "absolutely" believes she lost because of discrimination.

Earlier in the morning, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D., N.Y.) defeated Lee, a fellow Congressional Black Caucus member, with a vote of 123-113. The Democrat Caucus chair is the fifth most powerful position in House Democrat leadership.

Huffington Post reporter Matt Fuller asked Lee, 72, after the loss whether she believed "ageism or sexism played a part in this race."

"Well, I think you heard and saw what took place. So I absolutely think that’s the case," Lee said.

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