Freshman Davids adds a new voice to party’s leadership team

Congresswoman-elect Sharice Davids (KS-03) was unanimously elected to the leadership position of Regional Whip in a vote conducted yesterday by members of the Democratic caucus. Davids will assume the position when she is sworn in as a member of the 116th Congress on Jan. 3, 2019.

“I’m honored to take on this role and add a new voice--a voice for Kansas--to the Democratic leadership team,” said Davids. “I look forward to working closely with members of our Midwest region to make sure Kansas priorities are front and center in the Democratic Caucus.”

Davids will be one of two whips for Region 4, which includes the Democratic members in the states of Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Congressman-elect Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (IL-04) will serve along with Davids as co-whip for Region 4.

The primary responsibilities of the Regional Whip are assisting in lining up support for policy positions, tracking votes, and ensuring Members are present on the House floor for close votes. Davids’ election to this position-- along with several other newer members elected to leadership positions this week-- reflect the growing support for new leadership within the ranks of the Democratic party.

Davids defeated four-term incumbent Republican Kevin Yoder by nearly 10 points in November, as Kansas voters endorsed her message of affordable healthcare, quality public education, and putting Kansas’ interests ahead of special interests. Davids will be one of the first two Native American women to serve in Congress (along with Deb Haaland, NM-01) and the first open LGBTQ member of the Kansas delegation.