Washington, D.C. — The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) announced its newly elected Executive Committee leadership for the 119th Congress, set to convene on January 3, 2025. The announcement marks a historic milestone as the caucus, founded in 1971, prepares to enter the next Congress with 62 members—the largest in its history, including representation in both the House of Representatives and Senate.
Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04), who has led the caucus during a tumultuous period marked by social and political upheaval, praised the incoming leadership while reflecting on his tenure. “Fifty-three years after our caucus’ founding, our work to improve the lives and conditions of Black people in America is more important than ever before,” Horsford said. He highlighted the caucus’s growth and its ongoing role as “the conscience of Congress,” addressing issues of justice and equity across the nation.
Horsford expressed confidence in his successor, Chair-elect Yvette Clarke (NY-09), citing her “immense capabilities” to lead during what he described as a critical juncture for the country. “Representative Clarke will carry on the legacy of the CBC and ensure we push back against the erosion of our fundamental rights and build a future where everyone can thrive,” he said.
Clarke’s Vision for Leadership
Chair-elect Clarke, who will assume the leadership role in January, outlined her priorities in a statement following her election. A senior member of the House Committees on Energy and Commerce and Homeland Security, Clarke emphasized the importance of tackling key issues including voting rights, criminal justice reform, healthcare equity, and economic equality.
“Since its formation in 1971, the CBC has constantly pursued its mission of supporting and enforcing laws that protect and enrich the Black community,” Clarke said. She also highlighted a historic first for the 119th Congress: two Black women serving simultaneously in the Senate, signaling “elevated representation to combat blatant racism and policies intentionally overlooking diverse and minority communities.”
Clarke also pledged to counter ideological challenges posed by political opponents. In a sharply worded statement, she said, “The CBC must stand as the resistance to the extremist ideologies of Project 2025. I am committed to working with my colleagues to call out this extremist agenda and fight like hell for a pathway forward.”
CBC Executive Committee Leadership
The CBC’s leadership team for the 119th Congress reflects a diverse geographic and experiential background:
- Chair: Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) will lead the caucus, building on her experience in key congressional committees.
- First Vice Chair: Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), a ranking member on the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology.
- Second Vice Chair: Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-07), serving on the House Judiciary and Education and Workforce Committees.
- Secretary: Rep. Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure and Armed Services Committees.
- Whip: Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), who serves on the House Committees on Foreign Affairs and Natural Resources.
Record Membership and a Growing Influence
The CBC’s expansion to 62 members underscores its growing influence in shaping legislative priorities and addressing systemic inequities. With a mandate to uplift Black communities and address the broader challenges facing the nation, the CBC has positioned itself as a critical voice in Congress.
As the caucus enters the 119th Congress, it faces significant challenges, including countering legislative agendas seen as undermining civil rights and ensuring equity in key policy areas. With a bolstered membership and new leadership, the CBC aims to remain at the forefront of these debates.
“The diversity of our caucus is our strength, and our unity is our power,” Clarke said. “Together, we will continue to advocate and advance policies that reflect the values of the Black diaspora and all Americans striving for a more just and equitable society.”
This historic moment for the CBC marks both a culmination of decades of advocacy and a call to action for the future.