Wrapping up her first term in Congress, U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., will take over as chairwoman of the Future Forum, which defines itself as “an influential group of young Democratic members of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives who advocate for issues and opportunities important to younger Americans.”
Murphy, who was also named to the lead the Blue Dog Caucus at the end of last month, will take over the 50 member group which was launched in 2015 by U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., “to create and execute a federal policy agenda based on feedback received from young people at listening events across the country.” The group will plan to focus on “gun violence prevention, college affordability and equality of opportunity” in the coming months.
Taking over from Swalwell, Murphy is turning to three House Democrats to serve as vice chairs: U.S. Reps. Antonio Delgado of New York, Abby Finkenauer of Iowa and Jimmy Gomez of California. Swalwell, who is a potential candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, will now be chairman emeritus.
On Thursday, Murphy weighed in on her new post.
“As we saw in Florida after the Parkland shooting, young Americans are demanding their voices be heard now more than ever – and Congress should listen,” Murphy said. “I’m proud to lead this group of passionate young leaders in Congress who will amplify the voices of younger Americans and provide them with a platform to shape the future of our great country. With millennials making up the largest generation in the American workforce and post-millennials becoming more engaged in our democracy, Future Forum will have an important role in this new Democratic majority to steer our country in the right direction.”
“I founded Future Forum in 2015 to give millennials a voice in Congress,” Swalwell said. “Decisions made in Washington today will affect young people for generations to come, and they deserve a seat at the table in Congress. With Congresswoman Murphy’s thoughtful, energetic leadership, Future Forum will continue its innovative work listening to and engaging with young people to create a better, brighter future for us all.”
After serving at the Pentagon under President George W. Bush, Murphy burst on the political scene in 2016 when she upset longtime U.S. Rep. John Mica, R-Fla. While she was a top Republican target in last month’s election, Murphy easily beat Republican state Rep. Mike Miller to win a second term.
U.S. Rep. Darren Soto, D-Fla., is also a member of the Future Forum.
