Hakeem Jeffries

Hakeem Sekou Jeffries, born on August 4, 1970, is a prominent American politician and attorney, currently serving as the U.S. representative for New York's 8th congressional district and the House Democratic Leader as of 2023. A committed member of the Democratic Party, Jeffries has made history as the first African American to lead a party caucus in either chamber of Congress.

Elected to his leadership position by unanimous vote from the House Democratic Caucus in November 2022, Jeffries has positioned himself as a key figure in legislative discussions. He was also the Democratic nominee for Speaker of the House in the 118th Congress, receiving full support from his colleagues.

Since taking office in 2013, after winning the election in 2012, Jeffries has represented New York's 8th congressional district, which encompasses parts of southern and eastern Brooklyn. Prior to his congressional career, he spent three terms in the New York State Assembly representing the 57th district and worked as a corporate attorney.

Jeffries previously held the role of chair of the House Democratic Caucus from 2019 to 2023. In November 2022, he was elected unopposed to succeed Nancy Pelosi as caucus leader, solidifying his influence within the Democratic Party and his commitment to advancing progressive legislation.