Hakeem Jeffries poised to become first Black House speaker after Democratic midterm win

Democratic New York Congressman Hakeem Jeffries is poised to become the first Black speaker of the House when the new Congress convenes on January 3, 2027, following Democrats' sweeping midterm victory that ousted Republicans from majority control. Jeffries, who has served in Congress since 2013 and represents New York's 113th-119th districts, previously served as House Democratic Caucus chair and was an impeachment manager in President Donald Trump's Senate trial. He holds degrees from SUNY, Georgetown, and NYU Law. Outgoing Speaker Mike Johnson will not seek the minority leader role after losing his majority, with conservative Jim Jordan expected to announce his candidacy. Democrats hold over 218 House seats and at least 54 Senate seats, giving Jeffries and Senate leader Chuck Schumer room to advance their agenda.