In a letter to colleagues on Friday, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York, declared his candidacy for House Democratic leader.
“None of us could have anticipated the difficulties the American people would face in the years to come when I first ran for the position of Chair of the House Democratic Caucus two terms ago. However, House Democrats consistently stepped up to the plate during a time of great difficulty for our country.
“Today, as we once more get ready to meet the moment, I write to humbly ask for your support for the position of House Democratic Leader.”
His letter was tweeted by Spectrum News’ Cassie Semyon.
Jeffries honored Nancy Pelosi on Thursday after she declared she would not run for a leadership position in the Democratic Party in the incoming Congress.
“Speaker Nancy Pelosi is the G.O.A.T.,” he wrote. I appreciate what you have done for America.
As reported by Reuters, Jeffries, 52, would be the first Black Democrat in charge of the House. Two other party leadership members are in their 80s, including Pelosi, the first woman to occupy the speaker position. Pelosi is 82 years old. On November 30, House Democrats are expected to vote on their new leaders.
Since 2019, Jeffries has served as the chairman of the House Democratic Caucus.
