U. S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland has made history by being elected as the secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, marking her as the first representative from Washington state and the Pacific Northwest on the caucus's executive board. In a news release, Strickland expressed her gratitude for the support of her colleagues, stating, 'I am honored and grateful to my CBC colleagues for their trust and support.

' She is committed to leveraging their collective power to achieve significant goals during the 119th Congress. Strickland previously served as whip for the caucus, showcasing her leadership experience. Her background as the former mayor of Tacoma enhances her qualifications, giving her insight into local and national issues. The Congressional Black Caucus, consisting of 62 members, plays a vital role in advocating for policies that benefit African American communities and addressing inequality. Strickland’s election represents a promising step toward greater representation and influence for Washington state in the national political landscape.