Hakeem Jeffries, candidate for the Democratic leader in the US House of Representatives

New York Democratic Representative Hakeem Jeffries has officially announced his candidacy to replace President Nancy Pelosi, who announced her retirement as leader in that state in the US House of Representatives.

Jeffries, who has been a member of the House of Representatives since 2013, would become the first African-American leader in congressional history, if his bid is successful.

His formal application included a four-page letter sent to his colleagues outlining the goals of his caucus for the coming year, as a minority party.

When I sought the Democratic Caucus chair seat in the House two terms ago, none of us anticipated the challenges facing the American people in the years to come. Yet, time and time again, during a time of tremendous upheaval in our nation, House Democrats have risen to the occasion.”

Today, I am writing to humbly ask for your support of the Democratic Leader’s position, he added.

Jeffries is part of a trio of lawmakers eager to lead the liberals who, starting next year, will outnumber the Republicans.

The Washington Post reported that Reps. Catherine M. Clark and Pete Aguilar have identical intentions of running for caucus president.

The Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, announced yesterday that she will remain a member of Congress, but will leave her position at the head of the Democratic Party next year, as she has remained there for two decades.

I will not seek re-election to Democratic leadership in the next Congress. For me, it is time for a new generation to lead the congregation that I respect so much, and I am grateful that so many people are ready and willing to take on this tremendous responsibility,” the first and only woman to hold this responsibility told the site.

(With info from Prensa Latina)