After a month-long campaign sprint across 20 states, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries wrapped up his season back in New York, where he’s vying to help Democrats flip enough seats to reclaim a House majority — and make him the first Black speaker. Jeffries spent the final weekend rallying with Democratic hopefuls in key battlegrounds, including Syracuse and Ithaca, where races could decide control of the House.
“We’re only four seats short,” Jeffries said, urging supporters to help secure Democratic wins in districts like those held by Reps. Tom Suozzi and Pat Ryan. Jeffries expressed confidence that a well-organized Democratic ground game, strengthened by alliances with Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and Gov. Kathy Hochul, has positioned them to win crucial seats.
The final days of campaigning also saw Republican Speaker Mike Johnson making stops in New York, underscoring the state’s significance in the fight for the House. Jeffries, drawing enthusiastic crowds, said a Democratic majority would focus on voting rights and consumer protections, pledging to certify the election results if Vice President Kamala Harris wins. “Everything is close,” he said, adding that the stakes for democracy are high.
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