Nadler steps aside as top Judiciary Democrat amid potential ouster

• One senior House Democrat told Axios of Nadler: "I think the numbers were clear to him."
• Nadler's withdrawal was first reported by the New York Times.

What he's saying: In a letter to colleagues obtained by Axios, Nadler wrote that Raskin has "already proven himself to be an exceptional leader and spokesperson for our party's values."

• "As our country faces the return of Donald Trump, and the renewed threats to our democracy and our way of life that he represents, I am very confident that Jamie would ably lead the Judiciary Committee as we confront this growing danger," he added.
• Nadler said he will "still be an active member" of the panel and "work alongside its new leadership."

What happened: Raskin, 61, decided to run against Nadler, 77, amid concerns about Nadler's ability to take on the incoming Trump administration atop the all-important panel.

• Raskin had been making the case to colleagues that vigorous leadership will be needed to push back against what he says is a coming "onslaught" at the Justice Department.
• Raskin, who is close with Nadler, had initially been against the run, but was swayed by outreach from dozens of colleagues, Axios previously reported.

Zoom out: Nadler is the second ranking member this week to drop their bid for reelection amid a challenge from a younger colleague.

• Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-Ariz.), 76, said Monday he will not seek to stay on as ranking member of the Natural Resources Committee in the face of an ouster attempt from Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), 60.
• Agriculture Committee ranking member David Scott (D-Ga.), 79, is facing a challenge from Reps. Jim Costa (D-Calif.), 72, and Angie Craig (D-Minn.), 52.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional context.