Preparing to start his third term on Capitol Hill next month, this week, U.S. Rep. Darren Soto, D-Fla., the first member of the Florida delegation of Puerto Rican ancestry, announced that he will serve as the whip for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC).
In his new role, Soto “will be responsible for coordinating all whipping activities among caucus Members and presenting CHC positions to leadership in both parties.”
The congressman weighed in on Tuesday on what he hopes to focus on in the next two years in his new position.
“I am humbled that my colleagues have entrusted me with the position of CHC whip, a position previously held by some of my personal heroes,” said Soto. “As we look ahead to the 117th Congress, we must prioritize the pressing issues affecting our Hispanic communities, such as combatting COVID-19, supporting workers and small businesses, environmental justice, and immigration reform. We will work to keep our caucus united, coordinate with the incoming Biden Administration, and reach across the aisle whenever possible. I am prepared to confront the many challenges that may arise with a fresh perspective and willingness to find common ground to deliver solutions for Hispanics across the country.”
Soto pledged to work “with each of his colleagues to deliver much-needed solutions for Hispanics”, especially during the current pandemic.
This is not Soto’s only new assignment. Also this week, Soto announced he was taking over as chair of the Future Forum from U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., who will remain part of that group’s leadership as chair emeritus. According to Soto’s office, the Future Forum is a caucus “of young Democratic members of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives who advocate for issues and opportunities important to millennials and Generation Z.”
First elected to Congress in 2016 after serving in both chambers of the Florida Legislature, Soto has been active on technology issues during his two terms on Capitol Hill. He co-chairs the New Democrat Coalition’s Technology Task Force and is a co-chair of the Congressional Blockchain Caucus. He is also part of the Democratic leadership as an assistant regional whip.
Representing all of Osceola County and parts of Orange and Polk Counties, Soto sits in what is considered a secure district for Democrats.
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
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