Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s decision to give up her role leading the House Democrats when Republicans take power next year could pave the way for a brainy hip-hop loving lawmaker from New York to become the chamber’s next minority leader.
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights is the No. 5 Democrat in the House and has carved out a reputation as one of the party’s best communicators.
Carrying strong relationships within the Democratic caucus, Jeffries, 52, is seen as the likely heir to Pelosi, the first woman to serve as House speaker. He would be the first Black minority leader in the House.
