Nancy Pelosi Chicago Visit Puts Spotlight On Contentious House Democrat Primary

As House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi gears up for her high-end Chicago fundraiser in June, an important question lingers in the suburbs north of Chicago – will Pelosi invite former 10th district Congressman Brad Schneider?

Schneider, who is vying to represent the district in what will be a marquee House race, will need the full support and financial assistance of the Democratic machine. However, Schneider’s name was noticeably absent from an invitation obtained by the Chicago Sun-Times:

“Illinois Democratic Reps. Jan Schakowsky, Mike Quigley and Cheri Bustos names are listed on the invitation, obtained by the Sun-Times, with unspecified other members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation also joining the dinner at Mastro’s, 529 N. Dearborn.”

In March, Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering threw a wrench into Washington Democrats’ plans when she announced her candidacy, triggering a potentially problematic primary challenge to Schneider.

What will Pelosi and the Democrats do? Will they invite both prospective nominees to the fundraiser or will they alienate a Democratic candidate to anoint their preferred nominee?