At 87, California Representative Maxine Waters is preparing to run for her 19th term in Congress while also aiming to chair the influential House Financial Services Committee. Waters has served in Congress since the presidency of George H.W. Bush and has been a high-profile figure in Democratic politics for decades.

In a recent interview with Politico, Waters defended her decision to continue in office, highlighting her energy and track record. “If you take a look at my energy and what I do, I am Auntie Maxine,” she said, referencing her popularization of the phrase “reclaiming my time.” She expressed confidence in maintaining her role and influence in Congress.

Should Democrats win the House in the 2026 midterm elections, Waters is expected to assume the committee chairmanship, which oversees financial regulations and policy, including emerging areas such as cryptocurrency. Observers note that she would be the oldest leader in the committee’s history, raising questions among some lawmakers about age and leadership capacity.

Waters faces primary opposition from Myla Rahman, a nonprofit executive in her mid-50s, who argues for generational change. Rahman told Fox News in February that constituents are “sick and tired of the same old thing,” and she emphasized the importance of new leadership.

Within her own party, some Democrats privately express concerns about Waters’ leadership style and the optics of an octogenarian chairing a major committee. Critics note that she often focuses committee attention on herself and may not provide sufficient opportunities for other members to take the initiative.

Despite these critiques, Waters remains a dominant figure in her heavily Democratic district and is widely expected to win reelection. If successful, she will continue her longstanding influence in Congress, combining seniority with oversight responsibilities at a time when Democrats seek to expand their legislative and regulatory reach.