A day after re-electing Rep. Nancy Pelosi to lead them in the next Congress, House Democrats have rebuffed her effort to elect a close ally to an important committee post.

Democrats voted 100-90 on Wednesday to make New Jersey Rep. Frank Pallone the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. The loser was California Rep. Anna Eshoo, a Pelosi friend.

The Energy and Commerce panel is coveted because of its jurisdiction over high-profile issues like health, environment and communications.

Pelosi had taken the unusual step for a leader of sending a letter to Democrats supporting Eshoo.

Pallone was supported by Maryland Rep. Steny Hoyer, the No. 2 House Democratic leader and a long-time Pelosi rival.

Wednesday's vote followed House Democratic losses in this month's elections.

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