In a historic meeting, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) celebrated its largest membership ever, entering the 119th Congress with 62 members. This milestone reflects a significant increase in representation and underscores the caucus's commitment to advocating for the rights and needs of the Black community.
Outgoing chair, Congressman Steven Horsford, praised the leadership of House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the dedication of both frontline and non-frontline members. He emphasized the CBC's resolve to protect fundamental freedoms and oppose any attempts to undermine civil rights, particularly in light of a new Trump administration.
Congresswoman Yvette D. Clark, elected by acclamation as the new chair, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the caucus. She acknowledged the contributions of Black women in the CBC, noting that they now comprise more than half of its membership. Clark highlighted the caucus's focus on critical issues such as democracy, education, environmental justice, healthcare, and public safety, while also recognizing the challenges posed by a divided Congress.
The meeting also marked the election of new CBC officers, including Congressman Troy Carter as first vice chair and Congresswoman Lucy McBath as second vice chair. Clark reflected on the legacy of Shirley Chisholm, a founding member of the CBC, as the caucus prepares to navigate the political landscape ahead.
With a commitment to unity and diversity, the CBC aims to leverage its historic membership to combat racism and advocate for policies that uplift minority communities. As they embark on this new chapter, the caucus remains focused on finding bipartisan solutions where possible while standing firm against any efforts to roll back progress.