WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 29: U.S. Rep Maxwell Frost (D-FL) speaks during a rally held by Congress members in support of detained Columbia student mohsen Mahdawi in front of the State Department on April 29, 2025 in Washington, DC. Mahdawi, a legal U.S. resident, was detained on March 8 during a US citizenship interview and is scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday where a judge will determine if he will be deported or released. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)
Young folks’ response to the slow-motion crawl of American politics has been to step up to the table and make thier own plate. in 2025, Gen Z and Millennial leaders have been exploding onto the political scene, and given President Donald Trump’s second term, there’s been a demand for more fresh faces and new ideas in formal government.
That’s why The Root has gathered a list of some of the many rising stars across the country- many of whom are Black. From folks like N.Y.Councilman Chi Ossé and Kahlil Greene all the way to Fla. Rep.Maxwell Frost and Tennessee Rep. Justin J.Pearson, these young voices are undoubtably the future of politics… so its time we all start learning their names and remembering their policies.
N.Y. Councilman Chi Ossé
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You’ve probably seen his face on social media! N.Y. Councilman chi Ossé is one of the many fresh voices in New york City politics. He’s a self identified socialist with views aimed at addressing affordability and housing.
NYC Mayor Mamdani
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 05: Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani speaks during a press conference at the Unisphere on November 05, 2025 in the Queens borough of New York city. Mamdani won the mayoral election over independent mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo and Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa. (Photo by Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images)
N.Y.mayor-elect zohran Mamdani won over the hearts and spirits of millions of Americans in his state and even more around the country. The Democratic socialist represents a new age of Democratic leadership – one in wich social media plays just as much of a part as actually speaking with everyday people and coming up with policy to address their concerns.
tennessee Rep. Justin Jones
## Meet the Young Black Leaders Shaking Up American Politics
Young, Black and aspiring-these are the leaders poised to reshape American politics. From state representatives to digital historians, these individuals are bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to the forefront. Here are a few names you should know.
Bryce Berry
Bryce Berry, Georgia’s youngest state representative, was elected just last year. As a former teacher and now politician, Berry is working towards being a bridge between worlds, focusing on affordability, healthcare and gun violence, according to his website. He defeated incumbent Republican candidate Mesha Mainor.
Kahlil Greene
Rising Stars: Meet the youngest Members of Congress
The U.S. Congress is seeing a shift in demographics, with a new generation of leaders stepping into the political arena. These young lawmakers bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a commitment to representing the diverse needs of their constituents. Here’s a look at some of the youngest members currently serving in Congress.
New York rep. Jordan Wright
Assembly Member Jordan Wright is also the son of respected N.Y. Democrat Keith L. T. Wright. In 2023,the young politician managed the campaign of Exonerated Five member Yusef Salaam and eventually became his chief of staff,according to his bio. Now, his focus is on affordable housing, healthcare access and public safety for the Harlem community.
Maine Rep. Mana Abdi
Maine Rep. Mana Abdi was born in Kenya to Somali parents. Her family came to the states when she was 11, according to her bio. Abdi has been an advocate against Trump’s targeting of Somali communities in Minnesota.She also serves on the Criminal justice and Public safety Committee.
Florida Rep. Maxwell frost
Maxwell Frost made history as the first Generation Z member of Congress, representing Florida’s 10th congressional district. A community organizer and activist, Frost campaigned on issues like gun violence prevention, affordable housing, and Medicare for All. Learn more about his work here.
Key Takeaways:
- Jordan Wright focuses on issues impacting the Harlem community, building on his experience as a campaign manager and chief of staff.
- Mana Abdi brings a unique perspective as a first-generation American and advocate for marginalized communities.
- Maxwell Frost represents a historic shift in Congress,being the first member of Generation Z.
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