theGrio’s 100: Steven Horsford, congressman making history in Nevada

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Who is Steven Horsford? 

Elected last November, the Las Vegas Democrat became the first black member of Congress ever from Nevada.

Why is he on theGrio’s 100? 

The 39-year-old is considered a rising star in his state’s politics, having also been the first black majority leader in the state’s senate. And the Las Vegas native will immediately became an important member of the House politically. Nevada is expected to be one of the early states in the 2016 presidential primary process, so potential candidates will seek his endorsement.

“My roots are in this district, my life’s story is contained in its boundaries, and this community has stuck with me during tough times,” he said in a post-election statement. “Running for office has never been about me, it’s about all of us. We have tackled challenges together, and tonight we celebrate this victory together.”

What’s next for Horsford? 

His quick political ascent means that Horsford could eventually seek to succeed Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) in the Senate or aim for the governor’s office.  He already seems to be looking in that direction, pledging after he won to look to forge alliances across the political aisle even in the hyper-partisan House of Representatives.