Statement from CBC Chair Yvette D. Clarke and Former Chairs Steven Horsford and Joyce Beatty in Response to Comments by Senator Elissa Slotkin

Today, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), and former Chairs Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-04) and Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement in response to recent comments regarding House Democratic leadership by Sen. Elissa Slotkin:

"With respect to Senator Elissa Slotkin: House Democrats don't need a lesson on reading the political moment from someone who handed Donald Trump one of the most corrupt cabinets in American history. Voting to confirm Kristi Noem and five other Trump Cabinet secretaries is not the posture of someone who 'understood the moment' after 2024. Before attempting to weigh in on House Democratic leadership, Senator Slotkin should account for her own role in enabling a racist administration whose policies have caused profound harm to the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Black communities that we represent.

"Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has worked tirelessly to hold the line for working people every single day and has led the House Democratic Caucus with discipline, clarity, and results. We're focused on delivering for the American people-not relitigating leadership from the other chamber or posturing for higher office in 2028.

"The Congressional Black Caucus and House Democrats are united behind Leader Jeffries and remain focused on lowering costs for working families, defending our democracy, protecting fundamental rights, and taking back the House majority this November-not engaging in distractions that only serve to divide Democrats at a moment when unity and resolve are essential."


Correction (June 27, 2026): An earlier version of this press release incorrectly stated that Senator Elissa Slotkin voted to confirm Pam Bondi. Senator Slotkin did not vote to confirm Pam Bondi. The statement has been updated to remove that reference. No other portions of the statement have been changed.