New Democrat Lawmakers Pose Together on Capitol Steps
A group of incoming freshmen, informally labeled The Bloc, shared yearbook-style photos during orientation.
By Julia Wang ·
A dozen newly elected Democratic lawmakers gathered on the steps of the U.S. Capitol on Thursday to pose for group photographs. The session took place during a break in their orientation schedule. The group includes Darializa Avila Chevalier, Claire Valdez, Brad Lander, Melat Kiros, Adam Hamawy, Donavan McKinney, Daniel Biss, Dan Koh, Chris Rabb, Angela Gonzales-Torres, Frederick Haynes III, and Patty Garcia.
Political journalists and insiders have referred to this coalition as The Bloc since September. The name reflects reports that these members have coordinated strategy and provided political support to one another since the primary elections. One progressive operative told Politico in September, They are moving as a bloc.
The group appears distinct from the earlier left-wing faction known as the Squad. The Squad is associated with Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib. The Bloc represents a small portion of the more than 70 new Democrats elected in the recent midterm elections.
Rep. Analilia Mejía stood at the center of the group during the photo shoot. Mejía, a former top campaign aide to Sen. Bernie Sanders, won the seat in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District previously held by Mikie Sherrill. She wore a bright blue dress for the occasion.
Several members posted the images on social media after the shoot ended. Dan Koh shared a selfie on Facebook with the caption, A freshman class that looks like America. Donavan McKinney posted on Instagram with the title Freshman Class Picture Day and paired the photos with a song by rapper Gucci Mane.
Angela Gonzales-Torres, a Democrat from Los Angeles backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, wrote on Instagram that the group would work to build a brighter future. She added, When people unite behind a purpose, there are no limits. Her post included music by Ice Cube.
More than 100 incoming congressmen arrived in Washington this week. They are participating in a 10-day training program on federal office procedures.
