A state representative for Chatham County will serve as the new minority leader for the Democratic party in North Carolina’s House of Representatives.

The incoming House Democratics Caucus selected Chatham County and Durham County representative Robert Reives on Thursday to lead the party within the chamber. Elected unanimously, Reives assumes the position after previously serving as the deputy minority leader.

In a news release following his selection, Reives indicated his party there is much work to be done by the state government, from creating jobs to expanding Medicaid, improving broadband access and increasing spending for K-12 education.

“Investing in our public schools as we emerge from this crisis is key to our children’s future and our future as a state,” Reives wrote.

Reives will replace Wake County Rep. Darren Jackson, who chose not to seek re-election for the minority leader position. He cited the Democratic party’s disappointing election in November, where they had hoped to take back control of the House for the first time since 2010. Instead, Republican candidates won four new seats, a trend seen in most state government races. Now, the North Carolina House has 69 of its 120 seats held by Republican representatives.

Reives, an attorney, has served North Carolina’s 54th District in the House of Representatives since 2014.

Photo via WRAL-TV.

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