Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV), 49, said in a statement that “over the last 50 years, the CBC has served as the ‘conscience of the Congress,’ helping to guide the legislative priorities that have shaped our country and aided improve the lives of African Americans and all our constituents. “As Chair, I will provide the leadership, strategic vision, and operational execution to lead us down a path that will yield favorable socioeconomic results for the communities and groups we serve,” he said.

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

Democratic Rep. Steven Horsford, Nevada’s first African American State Senate Majority Leader, will lead the Congressional Black Caucus during the 118th Congress, which begins in January. Horsford, who was re-elected to Nevada’s fourth congressional district in November, was named the CBC’s 28th chairman on Thursday.

In a statement, Horsford, 49, said that for the past 50 years, the CBC has acted as the “conscience of the Congress,” helping to direct the legislative goals that have shaped our country and enhanced the lives of African Americans and all of our voters.

“As Chair, I will provide leadership, strategic vision, and plan execution to guide us on a path that will deliver positive socioeconomic outcomes for the communities and constituencies we serve.” Horsford’s appointment as chair comes as Democrats lose their majority in the House. Known for successfully working across party lines and remaining calm in the face of everyday congressional pressures, he has continued his work to ensure veterans and senior citizens receive needed benefits.

He wrote and passed the Nevada Lands Bill, which helped to create jobs throughout the state, and he fought to protect a woman’s right to make healthcare decisions. The CBC also named Rep. Yvette Clarke, 58, of New York as first vice chair, Rep. Troy Carter, 59, of Louisiana as second vice chair, Rep. Lucy McBath, 62, of Georgia as secretary, and Rep. Marilyn Strickland, 60, as whip.

“I am so honoured to have been elected​ as the CBC Secretary for the 118th Congress. “It is always necessary that we forge a path towards Good Trouble and do the work to make life better for American families,” McBath asserted. “We must work together to create a brighter, more just future for our communities, caucus, and country.”