Official announcement from the U.S. House of Representatives

House Democrats Nominate Hakeem Jeffries for Speaker in 119th Congress

Jan 3, 2025, 05:47 PM

House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar has nominated Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for the position of Speaker of the House as the 119th Congress convenes to elect a speaker. Democrats are expected to support Jeffries throughout the speaker election process. Aguilar highlighted Jeffries' leadership, stating that House Democrats under his guidance are committed to working with the incoming administration to improve life, safety, and affordability for Americans. Aguilar also praised Jeffries' negotiation skills, noting he is the only leader in the House who knows how to negotiate bipartisan deals and stick to them. Additionally, Aguilar took a jab at the Republicans, claiming to speak on behalf of the 'governing majority' of the House, referencing the Democrats' role in passing key legislation in the previous Congress. Representative Bobby Scott expressed readiness to vote for Jeffries and work on behalf of Virginia's Third Congressional District.