Statement from Congresswoman Barbara Lee on Caucus Chair Election
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee released the following statement on the House Democratic Caucus Chair election:
“I want to congratulate Congressman Hakeem Jeffries on a hard-fought race. I look forward to working with him to advance a progressive, inclusive agenda for the American people.
“While I didn’t win today, I hope my candidacy will inspire other women, and women of color in particular, to run for elected office and seek leadership positions. Our Caucus can only succeed when every voice is represented in leadership.
“It is a profound honor to follow in the footsteps of my late mentor, Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, who made history as the first African American woman elected to Congress. She used to tell people, ‘If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring in a folding chair.’
“My vision is a leadership table where folding chairs are no longer required. And I will keep working, alongside my colleagues, to realize that future.”
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