Eric Benet and Mark Ruffalo criticize Hakeem Jeffries as he eyes House speaker role

WASHINGTON, DC: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is facing criticism from singer Eric Benet and actor Mark Ruffalo as he prepares to become the next Speaker of the House. Their comments come as Democrats celebrate their success in the November 2026 midterm elections and Jeffries formally announces his candidacy for the leadership position on November 4.

While Jeffries could make history as the first Black Speaker of the House, some critics are calling for Democrats to choose a different leader. A petition demanding his replacement has also attracted more than 737,000 verified signatures.

Eric Benet calls Hakeem Jeffries 'bought and paid for'

Singer Eric Benet has openly questioned Jeffries' suitability for the Speaker role in a video shared on social media.

In the clip, Benet sits in his car and delivers his criticism in a melodic, singsong performance. He claims Jeffries is "bought and paid for" and says he "can't be the speaker on the new House floor."

Benet also called on others to join the effort to demand a change in Democratic leadership.

Actor Mark Ruffalo has also weighed in on the criticism surrounding Jeffries, adding another recognizable name to the growing public discussion about his candidacy.

Hakeem Jeffries faces petition with over 737,000 signatures

The criticism has also taken the form of an online petition launched by Nicole Whitted on Change.org. The campaign, which calls on House Democrats to choose a new Speaker, has collected 737,063 verified signatures.

Whitted is described by Newsweek as an author and Democratic-supporting social media creator. In the petition, she explained why she believes Democrats should consider another candidate.

"We believe the Speaker should represent the Democratic voters, not just the Democratic establishment," she wrote.

The petition also identifies Whitted as a Change Ambassador who receives compensation in connection with the campaign.

Hakeem Jeffries announces candidacy for House Speaker

Despite the criticism, Jeffries formally announced his candidacy to become the 57th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives on Wednesday, November 4.

If elected by his fellow House members, he would become the first Black Speaker and stand second in line to the President of the United States.

The Speaker is also the only congressional leadership position specifically established by the US Constitution.

In his letter announcing his candidacy, Jeffries said Democrats must respond to the expectations of voters following their election success.

"We must now deliver the dramatic change the American people are demanding in the majority," he wrote.

He also outlined affordability as a major priority for the incoming Democratic majority.

"In the new Congress, we will aggressively fight for an affordable America. Life is way too expensive, and millions of hardworking taxpayers are drowning in this failed economy. As part of our effort to turn things around, every single member of our majority will play a meaningful role," Jeffries added.