The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) marked a powerful start to 2025 with its largest membership ever, welcoming 62 Black lawmakers as the 119th Congress began. The total number of Black representatives in Congress grew to 67, setting a remarkable milestone for representation.
Historic Senate Achievements Reshape Political Landscape
For the first time, two Black women will serve together in the United States Senate. Democrats Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware took their oaths of office, administered by Vice President Kamala Harris.
“I am honored to serve the people of Maryland and am ready to get to work to lower costs, fight for our families, and protect our values,” Alsobrooks declared on social media before her swearing-in ceremony.
Alabama Makes History with Double Black Representation
The state of Alabama achieved its own milestone by sending two Black representatives to Congress. Veteran Rep. Terri Sewell welcomed newcomer Shomari Figures, who won the newly created 2nd Congressional District seat.
This historic development follows a significant 2022 federal court ruling that mandated a second “opportunity district” to ensure fair Black voter representation. The U.S. Supreme Court later upheld this decision in 2023.
CBC’s Growth Reflects Decades of Progress
The CBC’s journey from its 1971 founding with just 13 members to today’s 62-strong caucus demonstrates significant progress in Black political representation. Among its newest members is Janelle Bynum, who made history as Oregon’s first Black congressional representative.
While the caucus remains nonpartisan, five Black Republican lawmakers chose not to join. These include Sen. Tim Scott and Representatives Byron Donalds, Wesley Hunt, John James, and Burgess Owens.
