TheGrio’s “Running Black” election series profiles Black candidates running for office in the 2024 elections. If successful, each candidate profiled could make history in their state. Hear from them in their own words about what’s at stake in their races, for the country, and for Black and brown communities on the political margin.
As a veteran U.S. member of Congress, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., has lived a life of public service for over three decades. Through many years of leadership and legislating, Lee, 77, garnered the respect of Washington, D.C., her home state of California, and the city of Oakland.
Now, Lee aims to advance her political career as she competes in the California U.S. Senate primary. The Tuesday contest will determine which candidates advance to the general election on Nov. 5.
Lee, who has served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 26 years, faces a crowded field of Senate hopefuls to fill the vacant seat once held by the late Senator Dianne Feinstein. The seat is temporarily being filled by the Senate’s lone Black woman, Laphonza Butler.
Lee garnered the support of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, entertainers like Michael Moore, Sheryl Lee Ralph, John Legend, Jamie Foxx, and Stevie Wonder, and other influential figures whom she calls “trusted messengers.”
“Getting people to the polls is what it takes, and I’m honored to have their support,” Lee told theGrio.
Her life of service and politics dates back to when she was a college student working on the historic 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm. The former Black Panther Party member later worked in the congressional office of then-U.S. Rep. Ron Dellums, D-Calif, who later supported her efforts to succeed him in Congress after his retirement in 1997.
Lee confidently and matter-of-factly told theGrio she is “the most experienced in this race,” which includes fellow Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., and…
Read the full article here
