"The American people have spoken and African Americans, in particular, have overwhelmingly voted for new leadership in Congress and around the country.  We will now have a Congress that works for all Americans.

"In the new Congress beginning in January, the CBC will have three new Members.  I congratulate and welcome U.S. Representatives-elect Yvette Clarke of New York, Keith Ellison of Minnesota and Hank Johnson of Georgia.  These new Members will all be powerful forces to help the CBC move forward with our agenda. 

"In addition, we expect the new committee leadership in Congress to include several members of the CBC: U.S. Rep. John Conyers (D-Michigan) as Chair of the House Judiciary Committee; U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel (D-New York) as Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee; U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-Florida) as Chair of the House Intelligence Committee; U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi) as Chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security; and U.S. Rep. Juanita Millender McDonald (D-California) as Chair of the House Administration Committee.
    
"Additionally, U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (D-South Carolina), the current House Democratic Caucus Chair, is positioned to become the Majority Whip, the third highest ranking position in the United States House.  Mr. Clyburn would be the second African American member to ever hold this important position.
    
"Overall, the Members of the CBC will continue to be leaders in making America work for all Americans and will help enact legislation that will close the disparities gap between the rich and poor in our country.

"We look forward to working with Democrats, Republicans and Independents to advance the CBC’s agenda."