During a recent congressional hearing, Representative Kweisi Mfume (D-MD) addressed the ongoing denial of rights to the citizens of Washington, DC, emphasizing the racial implications of the situation. Mfume asserted that the political landscape would differ if the affected population were predominantly white. He stated, “They think that if this was any other population, a majority population, this would not be taking place; we all know that it is partisan even though some people will say that it’s not partisan.”
Mfume’s comments reflect years of advocacy for civil rights and social justice, having been a prominent figure in the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). His election to represent Maryland’s 7th Congressional District came in a special election on April 28, 2020, following the death of Elijah Cummings. This district has been a majority Black constituency since 1973.
Background on Kweisi Mfume’s Career
First elected to Congress in 1986, Mfume served until 1996, after which he became the President of the NAACP from 1996 to 2004. His tenure in the House included significant leadership roles, including Chair of the CBC from 1993 to 1995. Following a break from politics, he returned to Congress in 2020, continuing his legacy of civil rights advocacy.
In his current role, Mfume is a primary sponsor of nine bills during the 119th Congress, demonstrating his active engagement in legislative matters. He serves on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and holds the position of Ranking Member on the Government Operations subcommittee. His work reflects a commitment to addressing issues affecting marginalized communities.
Recent Congressional Activities
This week’s congressional agenda included pressing discussions on issues such as government shutdowns and redistricting in Maryland. In a recent radio interview on October 30, 2025, Mfume elaborated on these challenges and the barriers to reopening the government. His advocacy continues to resonate within the CBC, which recently held multiple meetings addressing various topics impacting the African American community.
As a member of the CBC, Mfume represents one of the three Maryland members alongside Senator Angela Alsobrooks. Together, they work to ensure that the voices of their constituents are heard in Congress.
In addition to his legislative work, Mfume is known for his active social media presence, frequently sharing insights and updates on platforms such as Twitter and Bluesky. Despite fewer appearances in mainstream media, he remains a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice.
The ongoing discussions around the rights of Washington, DC citizens highlight the intricate relationship between politics and race in the United States. As Congressman Mfume continues to advocate for equitable treatment, his role within the CBC underscores the importance of representation and accountability in government.
