House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer Steny Hamilton HoyerOVERNIGHT ENERGY: California seeks to sell only electric cars by 2035 | EPA threatens to close New York City office after Trump threats to 'anarchist' cities | House energy package sparks criticism from left and right House energy package sparks criticism from left and right Hoyer: House should vote on COVID-19 aid — with or without a bipartisan deal MORE (D-Md.) published a letter Tuesday signed by 155 Democratic lawmakers endorsing his bid to be the House’s next majority leader, far surpassing the number of signatures needed to lock up the lower chamber’s No. 2 spot.

“In the majority, we will have considerable opportunity to effect change and great responsibility to get things done on behalf of our constituents. We will need a steady, experienced leader over the next two years, who also works to empower our Members and prepare them for future leadership opportunities,” the representatives wrote in the letter, which came a week after the Democratic Party recaptured the House majority in the midterm elections.

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“We will need someone who will hold President Trump Donald John TrumpBiden on Trump's refusal to commit to peaceful transfer of power: 'What country are we in?' Romney: 'Unthinkable and unacceptable' to not commit to peaceful transition of power Two Louisville police officers shot amid Breonna Taylor grand jury protests MORE, his Administration, and Congressional Republicans accountable – while still being able to work effectively in a divided government to get legislation passed. It is for these reasons that we believe that Steny is the person we need as Majority Leader,” they added.

Hoyer made a point of shoring up support among his caucus, traveling across the country to campaign and fundraise with Democratic candidates, an effort specifically cited in the letter.

“Steny was out on the trail tirelessly campaigning this cycle, doing the hard work necessary to take back the House. He traveled to districts in every part of the country, campaigning with progressive and moderate Democratic candidates alike. He’s been there for us: traveling for us, raising money for us, and he’s often one of the first people to reach out and offer his support. He has been a mentor to many of us,” the letter says.

Hoyer’s support transcends ideological fractures within the party, gaining the support of progressives and moderates, as well as 32 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, 31 members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and 31 freshman representatives, accounting for the majority of the freshman class.

The representatives note that as whip, Hoyer emphasized giving more junior members further experience, writing, “Half of his Whip team is composed of Members who have served for three terms or less... Steny is an innovative leader with unwavering integrity who empowers Members and gets things done. We believe that under his leadership, we will be well-positioned for further success in 2020.”

Democrats will hold their elections for leadership positions on Nov. 28, when Hoyer is expected to officially be elected majority leader.

Current Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi Nancy PelosiHoyer: House should vote on COVID-19 aid — with or without a bipartisan deal Ruth Bader Ginsburg lies in repose at Supreme Court McCarthy threatens motion to oust Pelosi if she moves forward with impeachment MORE (Calif.) plans to run for Speaker, though some Democratic lawmakers have pledged not to support her, saying fresh blood is needed.

Assistant Minority Leader Jim Clyburn James (Jim) Enos ClyburnFauci, Black Lives Matter founders included on Time's 100 Most Influential People list Azar to testify before House coronavirus subcommittee Attacks against the police are organized and violent MORE (S.C.) is expected to remain the No. 3 Democrat as majority whip in the next Congress.

Melanie Zanona contributed to this report