Congressional Black Caucus backs House Minority Leader Jeffries after Slotkin calls for new leadership

The Congressional Black Caucus issued a joint statement Friday evening supporting House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries after Sen. Elissa Slotkin called for new Democratic leadership. The statement said the caucus and House Democrats remain focused on lowering costs, defending democracy, protecting rights, and winning the House majority in November.

It described Slotkin's comments as distractions that divide Democrats when unity is needed. Slotkin made the remarks Wednesday on SiriusXM's Straight Shooter podcast. She said the old models are no longer working and that the Democratic Party needs significant new leadership.

The caucus statement also referenced Slotkin's votes to confirm several members of President Trump's Cabinet, including former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. It said Slotkin should account for her role before weighing in on House Democratic leadership. The statement inaccurately said Slotkin voted to confirm former U.S.

Attorney General Pam Bondi. Senate voting records show she voted against Bondi's nomination last February. The Hill has contacted the caucus for clarification.

A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found 62 percent of Democrats said party leaders should be replaced.