House insiders say Democratic Majority Leader Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.) is almost certain to retire after the midterm elections, clearing the way for a major shake-up among the upper ranks of the party's leadership.

• Author: Threadgill, Susan
• Position: Who's Who

House insiders say Democratic Majority Leader Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.) is almost certain to retire after the midterm elections, clearing the way for a major shake-up among the upper ranks of the party's leadership. Democratic Whip Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), widely considered to be Gephardt's heir after defeating Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) for the post last year, will likely run for minority leader--but she'll have to contend with Rep. Martin Frost (D-Texas), who spearheaded the party's successful redistricting efforts in 2000 and is also interested in the top slot. The contest between Reps. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) for Frost's current job of caucus chairman is likely to be more controversial. DeLauro is now assistant to the minority leader, a post created for her in 1998...