House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries is on track to become the first Black speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives after his party secured a majority in the midterm elections.

Democrats flipped the chamber from Republican control, with projections showing a sizable majority for the incoming 120th Congress that convenes in January. Jeffries, the 56-year-old representative from New York, formally announced his candidacy for speaker in a letter to colleagues this week.

The New York Democrat has served as minority leader since 2022 and faces no serious challengers within his caucus for the top post. Party members plan to hold internal leadership elections later this month, followed by the formal House vote on Jan. 3.

As speaker, Jeffries would be second in the presidential line of succession behind Vice President JD Vance. He has pledged to focus on lowering costs for Americans and conducting oversight of the Trump administration.

Jeffries rose through Democratic ranks representing a Brooklyn district known for its diverse urban electorate. He previously chaired the House Democratic Caucus and served on key committees including Judiciary and Education and the Workforce. Colleagues describe him as a disciplined communicator who helped unify the party during its time in the minority.

Republicans held the House for the previous four years under Speaker Mike Johnson. The Democratic victory marks a reversal from the 2024 results and positions the party to challenge President Donald Trump's agenda during his final two years in office.

Some progressive members have yet to commit support for Jeffries, though the size of the expected Democratic majority reduces the impact of any holdouts. Jeffries has emphasized unity and delivering on voter demands for change.

Republican leaders have signaled they will use their minority status to highlight policy differences on issues such as border security and economic growth. The shift in power comes as the administration prepares its final legislative push before the 2028 presidential contest.

The outcome underscores shifting political dynamics heading into 2028, with Jeffries emerging as a central figure in Democratic strategy.