Press Releases

Today, the Congressional Black Caucus held member elections for the CBC Executive Committee for the 119th Congress. The CBC will begin the 119th Congress on January 3, 2025, with 62 members – the largest membership in the caucus’ history. 

Chairman Steven Horsford and Chair-elect Yvette Clarke issued statements following the election of the Executive Committee for the 119th Congress by acclamation: 

Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04):

“On behalf of the entire Congressional Black Caucus, congratulations to the members of the Executive Committee of the 119th Congress. 53 years after our Caucus’ founding, our work to improve the lives and conditions of Black people in America is more important than ever before.  It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus during such a pivotal time in our country.  Together, we have faithfully served as the conscience of our Congress, centering issues of justice and equity for all Americans. I remain deeply honored to serve as a Member of the House of Representatives and especially a Member of this storied Caucus.  As we look toward the future, our Caucus will enter the 119th Congress with the largest membership in our history -- a record 62 members in the House and Senate.  To lead this historic membership will be a colleague and friend of immense capabilities and the right leader to take on the challenges that will confront the American people in the years to come.  I could not be prouder to pass the baton to the gentlelady from New York, Representative Yvette Clarke. 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 and achieve their full potential.”

Chair-elect Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09):

“I want to thank my peers for electing me to serve as Chair. In my capacity as Chair, I will ensure that our Caucus' goals are accomplished by focusing on voting rights, education, criminal justice reform, women’s rights, healthcare equity, and economic equality. We must be attentive in completing our purpose of addressing and enacting policy to uplift our community and keep our promises. Since its formation in 1971, the CBC has constantly pursued its mission of supporting and enforcing laws that protect and enrich the Black community. The CBC will have a record 62 members in both the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives during the 119th Congress. And for the first time in history, two Black women will serve together in the Senate—elevating our position in Congress to combat blatant racism and policies intentionally overlooking more diverse and minority communities—proving our diversity is our strength, and our unity is our power,” said Chairwoman Clarke. 

“Make no mistake. In this volatile political landscape, the CBC must stand as the resistance to the extremist ideologies of Project 2025 as the consciousness of Congress to advocate and advance the Black diaspora. The authors of Project 2025 will write America’s story for the next four years, and we must be prepared to use every legislative and communicative tool to oppose their agenda. 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 for the 119th Congress

Rep. Yvette D. Clarke will serve as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Clarke represents New York’s 9th district and currently serves as a senior member on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and the House Committee on Homeland Security. 

Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr., will serve as First Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Carter represents Louisiana’s 2nd district and currently serves on the House Homeland Security Committee where he is the Ranking Member of the Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee. Rep. Carter also serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. 

Rep. Lucy McBath will serve as Second Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. McBath represents Georgia’s 7th district and currently serves on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. 

Rep. Marilyn Strickland will serve as Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Strickland represents Washington’s 10th district and currently serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, as well as the House Committee on Armed Services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove will serve as Whip of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Kamlager-Dove represents California’s 37th district and currently serves on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and House Committee on Natural Resources.