In January 2023, after Kevin McCarthy was elected Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Representative Hakeem Jeffries, the House Democratic leader, delivered a unique 15-minute speech before handing over the “people’s” gavel to his Republican colleague.
Ending with alphabetical declaration of Democratic Party principles, Jeffries’ remarks brought his caucus to their feet with cheers and laughter. Someone set it to music. And it was viewed over 2.4 million times on social media over the following two days.
Now, that speech, delivered by the first African American leader of either chamber of Congress, form the basis for Rep. Jeffries’ new book, ABCs of Democracy, his blueprint for the nation’s future.
In the wake of an election that might see the Brooklyn congressman rise to become Speaker of House, he joins us to discuss the challenge of replacing Nancy Pelosi, corralling a divided caucus into speaking with a single voice, working across party lines and what the November election tells us about the direction of our country.
Unanimously elected Minority Leaders, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries represents the Brooklyn district of NY-8. He is a firm supporter of criminal justice reform, lowering prescription drug prices, affordable housing and Israel.
Representative Jeffries will sit for a conversation geared toward both adults and teens