Congressional Black Caucus Gears Up for Critical Work Ahead
In a landmark moment for representation, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) held its swearing-in ceremony on Friday, January 3, 2025, marking the beginning of the 119th U.S. Congress. New York Attorney General Letitia James officiated the ceremony, where a record-breaking 62 Black elected officials joined the ranks of Congress. Among them were historic firsts, including two Black women senators and two representatives from Alabama serving simultaneously.
Historic Milestones Democrats Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware have made history as the first pair of Black women to serve concurrently in the U.S. Senate. Additionally, Alabama’s congressional delegation welcomed two Black members for the first time. Incumbent Rep. Terri Sewell, joined by newly elected Shomari Figures of the state’s 2nd Congressional District, reflects the outcome of a landmark 2023 Supreme Court ruling that upheld the creation of a second “opportunity district” to enhance Black voter representation.
Reflecting on the CBC’s origins in 1971, when it was formed with just 13 members, Rep. Sewell highlighted the progress the group has made. “Today, we renew our pledge to fight racism where it exists and to address inequities in health care, the criminal justice system, education, and voter access,” she said. As chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s board, Sewell underscored the importance of the caucus’ work in the face of ongoing challenges.
Political Realities and Divides While the CBC now boasts 67 members—the largest contingent in its history—the group remains predominantly Democratic. The five Black Republican lawmakers, including Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina and Reps. Byron Donalds of Florida, Wesley Hunt of Texas, John James of Michigan, and Burgess Owens of Utah, are not members of the caucus. These legislators, aligned with Republican President-elect Donald Trump, have expressed their support for his policies and rhetoric, creating a sharp partisan divide within the broader Black congressional community.
A Call to Action Democratic members of the CBC reaffirmed their commitment to challenging legislation they view as harmful to Black Americans. Rep. Glenn Ivey of Maryland expressed concerns about the potential misuse of the U.S. Department of Justice under Trump’s leadership, emphasizing the need to protect the rule of law. “That’s not the role of the Department of Justice,” Ivey stated. “We have to ensure justice and accountability remain intact.”
Looking to the future, Ivey urged the caucus to focus on the 2026 midterm elections as an opportunity to regain political ground. “A setback is a setup for a comeback,” he said, invoking the transformative political shifts that followed past Republican majorities. “We’re ready to come back.”
A Renewed Pledge As the CBC begins its work in the 119th Congress, its members remain united in their mission to advocate for racial equity and justice. With the largest and most diverse membership in its history, the caucus is poised to tackle the challenges ahead and continue its legacy of transformative leadership.
