Louisiana Congressman Cedric Richmond has been elected chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus for the 115th Congress, which begins Jan. 3.

“I commend Representative Richmond on becoming the new chairman,” said Rep. G.K. Butterfield of North Carolina, the outgoing chairman.

“We have much work ahead of us during the 115th Congress, and I am confident Representative Richmond will provide strong leadership on issues we champion to ensure all Americans have an equal and equitable opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”

Since the last election, the Congressional Black Caucus has grown and now has 49 members. The CBC was founded in 1971.

Rep. Richmond, 43, is a native of New Orleans and represents most of the city as part of Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District. He is a member of Committee on the Judiciary and Homeland Security and has focused on reforming the criminal justice system.

A graduate of Morehouse College, Rep. Richmond earned a law degree from Tulane University School of Law in New Orleans. He also is a graduate of the Harvard University Executive Education Program at the John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Other new officers include Rep. André Carson of Indiana, first vice chair; Rep. Karen Bass of California, second vice chair; Rep. Brenda Lawrence of Michigan, secretary; and Rep. Gwen Moore of Wisconsin, whip.