BOSTON, November 26, 2018 — Today, Congresswoman-Elect Ayanna Pressley issued the following statement on her support for Democratic leadership for the incoming Congress:
Supports of Pressley in Boston CHinatown pose for a picture on primary day Sept. 4, 2018.
“There is tremendous energy and focus within the Democratic caucus – not only to resist Donald Trump and his cruel, draconian policies but to tackle a bold, progressive agenda that will generate real progress for the communities we represent.
Voters have given us a mandate to lead, and we’re ready to get to work.
I am supporting Barbara Lee for Caucus Chair, Katherine Clark for Vice Chair and Nancy Pelosi for Speaker. Who is in a formal leadership role matters, and these women have a strong progressive track record, but this 116th Congress will be defined by more than who holds a title.
I have lived and campaigned by the mantra that I do not need to ask permission to lead. We need bold gun violence legislation that saves lives, a green new deal, justice for survivors, and urgent action on voting rights. In partnership and coalition with our communities, we are ready to fight toward these critical goals.
An early priority I have discussed with candidates for leadership is the urgent need for gun violence legislation. At home in the 7th District, gun violence continues to rob us of our friends and neighbors. My first week in Washington was marred by three fatal shootings in our community. My support for Leader Pelosi’s bid for Speaker is motivated by her progressive track record and her express commitment to bring a background check bill to the floor as an early priority this Congress. I have been appointed to the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and will work in close partnership with my colleagues, advocates and impacted communities to address the epidemic of gun violence. Our mandate is clear: to push legislation that saves as many lives as possible as quickly as possible.
As I return to Washington today, I am deliberate and focused on the work ahead.”