Hakeem Jeffries announces bid for US House speaker, could become first black leader in the role
US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has formally announced his candidacy for Speaker of the House of Representatives, seeking to become the first Black person to hold the position following...
US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has formally announced his candidacy for Speaker of the House of Representatives, seeking to become the first Black person to hold the position following the Democrats’ gains in the US midterm elections.
According to ABC News, Jeffries announced his decision in a letter to Democratic colleagues on Wednesday, seeking their support ahead of the party’s leadership elections scheduled for November 18.
“I write to humbly request your support in connection with my candidacy to serve as the next Speaker of the House of Representatives,” Jeffries said in the letter.
Outlining his priorities for the incoming Congress, Jeffries said the Democratic agenda would focus on affordability, accountability and American values. He stressed the need to address the rising cost of living, stating that millions of Americans were struggling with the economic situation.
“In the new Congress, we will aggressively fight for an affordable America. Life is way too expensive, and millions of hardworking taxpayers are drowning in this failed economy,” he wrote.
As reported by ABC News, the Democratic leadership elections will take place behind closed doors on November 18. Jeffries will need the support of a simple majority of House Democrats to secure the party’s nomination. He would subsequently require 218 votes on the House floor to become Speaker when the new Congress convenes in January.
If elected, Jeffries would make history as the first Black Speaker of the US House of Representatives.
His announcement follows Democratic gains in the midterm elections, with the party projected to take control of both chambers of Congress. Reacting to the results, Jeffries described them as the beginning of a political comeback, asserting that voters had rejected what he termed extremism and corruption.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer also welcomed the election results, saying, “Relief is on the way.” He highlighted affordability and efforts to end the war with Iran among the party’s priorities. (ANI)
The post Hakeem Jeffries announces bid for US House speaker, could become first black leader in the role appeared first on DD India.
No Comment! Be the first one.