Rep. Barbara Lee to Head Congressional Black Caucus

Congresswoman Barbara Lee, who represents the 9th Congressional District, was announced as the next chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. She replaces outgoing chair Rep. Carolyn Kilpatrick and said, "The 111th Congress will not only present unique and difficult challenges, but also historic opportunities for our caucus... I plan to build upon the great leadership of our former chairs and to meet our caucus challenge of ‘Changing Course, Confronting Crises, and Continuing the Legacy’ of those who paved the way for each of our members to have the honor to serve and fight for equality, justice and peace for our African-American communities and for the entire nation." She also added, "The Congressional Black Caucus has been called 'the conscience of the Congress,' and we're going to continue to be that and to help our Speaker."