Rep. Joe Neguse Elected to Succeed Jim Clyburn as Assistant Democratic Leader of U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse of Colorado, a 39-year-old lawmaker in his third-term, was elected by acclamation by the House Democratic Caucus to succeed Congressman Jim Clyburn as Assistant Democratic Leader in the U.S. House of Representatives. Prior to Rep. Clyburn, the senior leadership role was previously held in the 117th Congress by Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (2021-2023) and in the 116th Congress by then-Rep. Ben Ray Lujan (2019-2021).
Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said the following after the election:
“Congressman Joe Neguse has been a dedicated member of House Leadership, most recently as the Chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee, where he successfully led the messaging team for House Democrats. As Assistant Democratic Leader, he will be a critical partner in our efforts to move America forward, as he works to enhance House services and resources, amplify our work putting people over politics and provide valuable strategic assistance to our Caucus.”
In a statement following the election, Neguse said:
“I am deeply grateful to my colleagues for electing me to serve as the Assistant Democratic Leader. Since the beginning of this term, House Democrats have been unified in our work to deliver for everyday Americans – working to move the country forward through our plans to lower costs, grow the middle class, create safer communities, and defend fundamental freedoms. And I am looking forward to continuing to work alongside every member of our incredible Caucus to get the job done.
“My biggest thanks goes out to Congressman Clyburn for his friendship, mentorship and many years of dedicated service to our Caucus and our country. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve alongside him and to learn from his sage wisdom and strong leadership.
“As Assistant Democratic Leader, I look forward to assisting Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark, and Chairman Pete Aguilar as we continue to put People over Politics and deliver real results for the American people. My office intends to hit the ground running, and will work to uplift and amplify every member of our diverse and talented Caucus, while bolstering resources and services for Members and their staff. Together, we will work shoulder to shoulder to cut through the chaos created by House Republicans and make good on our promises to the American people. Now, more than ever, we must build a future our communities can believe in.”
Rep. Neguse has been a member of the House Democratic leadership team since first being elected to Congress in 2018. He served as the Freshman Leadership Representative in the 116th Congress, Co-Chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) in the 117th Congress, and Chairman of the DPCC in the 118th Congress. He will continue to bring geographical diversity to the senior leadership table as the only non-coastal lawmaker, representing Colorado’s 2nd District and the Rocky Mountain West.
“House Democrats are made stronger by the dedicated Members pushing to create progress and build a brighter future for all – leaders like Joe Neguse,” said New Democrat Coalition Chair, Congresswoman Annie Kuster. “Joe is an incredible partner in delivering for rural states and mountain communities, and he will make a wonderful Assistant Democratic Leader. As DPCC Chair, Joe built a program that unites our diverse caucus and helps every Member communicate effectively about Democrats' work to move America forward. Congratulations to Joe on this exciting victory and new role – I know he will continue to be a force for progress.”
“Congratulations to Congressman Joe Neguse on his well-deserved election as Assistant Democratic Leader. Joe has consistently championed critical issues like affordable healthcare, fair taxes, and a cleaner environment for the next generation. As DPCC Chair, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing our agenda and prioritizing the needs of everyday Americans. I have every confidence that Joe will continue to excel in this new role, driving positive change for our nation,” said Chair of the Equality Caucus, Congressman Mark Pocan.