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Zients has tried to develop relationships with Hill allies, including Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), who chairs the Congressional Progressive Caucus.

Theres a transition going on in the administration, Jayapal said in March. We were looking forward to developing a good relationship with Jeff Zients, but at this point, were not in that place yet. So were still working on it.

Jayapal later added: Were getting to know each other, and Ive been really pleased with how responsive and open they are.

Since Zients takeover, there have been different reviews of how communication between the White House and Congress has flowed. West Wing Playbook reported last month that Zients was working to improve his relationships with allies on Capitol Hill, routinely calling and texting key members, including Jayapal.

Ive spoken with Jeff several times since hes become chief of staff and believe he is sincere about his commitment to working with progressives, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) said in March. Ron made it a priority to engage with Congress and it made a big difference. I know Jeff plans to do the same.

Ocasio-Cortez recalled the dynamic with Klain as very open.

Right now, you know, for me personally, its hard to tell sometimes what is getting through [to the White House] and what isnt, Ocasio-Cortez said. From what Ive been hearing with some grassroots partners, they dont feel the same receptiveness or true partnership that they had experienced previously.

A White House spokesperson declined to comment.

Listen to the full interview in Playbook Deep Dive here.

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AOC says lawmakers' relationship with Zients is still a work in progress - POLITICO