New Faces to Shape the Future: Politicians to Watch

Lawmakers to Watch in the 117th Congress

As the 117th Congress gets underway, a diverse group of lawmakers is poised to make a significant impact on policy and politics. Here are a few notable ones to keep an eye on:

Senators

• Bernie Sanders (I-VT): The independent senator from Vermont has been a driving force behind progressive policies, and his influence will likely continue to shape the legislative agenda.
• Elizabeth Warren (D-MA): The senator from Massachusetts is a leading advocate for consumer protection and financial regulation, and will likely play a key role in shaping the next iteration of financial reform.
• Ted Cruz (R-TX): The firebrand senator from Texas is a vocal opponent of progressive policies, and will likely continue to stir controversy with his conservative views.

Representatives

• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY): The freshman representative from New York made waves with her upset victory in 2018, and has since become a leading voice on progressive issues.
• Ayanna Pressley (D-MA): The first black woman to represent Massachusetts in Congress, Pressley is a rising star on the Democratic bench and will likely play a key role in shaping the party’s agenda.
• Ilhan Omar (D-MN): The Somali-American representative from Minnesota is a vocal critic of U.S. foreign policy and has faced controversy over her comments on Israel.

Caucus Chairs

• Jim Clyburn (D-SC): The longtime congressman from South Carolina will lead the House Majority Whip’s office, making him a key player in shaping Democratic strategy.
• Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY): The young congressman from New York will chair the House Democratic Caucus, positioning him to be a future party leader.

These lawmakers, along with many others, will be instrumental in shaping the policy debates and legislative outcomes of the 117th Congress.