Jeffries backs Wikler in last-minute endorsement for DNC chair

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) made a last-minute endorsement in the race for Democratic National Committee (DNC) chair on Friday, backing Wisconsin state party chair Ben Wikler.

“While there are several candidates for DNC Chair who have demonstrated clear-eyed and comprehensive visions for our party’s future, Ben Wikler is best positioned to lead the DNC forward,” Jeffries said in a statement shared through Wikler’s X account.

“Ben’s commitment to fighting for working families, lowering costs for hardworking American taxpayers and building a diverse coalition will be crucial in energizing the base and moving swing voters in our direction,” he continued. “He is a strategic thinker, talented organizer and proven fundraiser with a track record of winning tough elections in a battleground state.”

Wikler said in a statement on X that it was a “profound honor” to have Jeffries’ backing.

“Our goal is to unite this party, fight for working people everywhere, and win up and down the ballot—ensuring that, in 2026, Leader Jeffries becomes the next Speaker of the House,” he added.

Several other top Democratic leaders have also endorsed Wikler for DNC chair, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) is backing Minnesota state party chair Ken Martin.

Jeffries’ endorsement comes one day before 448 DNC committee members will select the next leader to take over the reins from outgoing chair Jaime Harrison. Wikler, Martin and former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley have racked up the most notable endorsements, and they will need at least a majority of the DNC committee members’ votes in order to be elected chair.