We've now learned that Rep. Ed Towns of New York is the favorite to take over the House Oversight Committee chairmanship, as a potential rival has indicated he won't oppose Towns.

This is a sign that the new Dem-controlled government is taking shape in a mostly smooth fashion, sparing the House Dems another brutal internal fight after current Oversight chairman Henry Waxman ousted John Dingell from the Energy and Commerce Committee.

There had been press coverage and rumors that Rep. Elijah Cummings of Maryland might have run against Towns for the now-vacant chairmanship, but it looks like Cummings won't oppose Towns, after all.

"The Congressman has said from the start that he would be honored to serve as OGR Chair, but he respects that his CBC [The Congressional Black Caucus] colleague, Mr. Towns, is next in line," Cummings spokesperson Jennifer Kohl told Election Central.

Another potential Towns rival, Rep. Carolyn Maloney of New York, has also said she would support him if he runs.

So if Towns wants it, it's that much more likely to be his.