Yvette D. Clarke

Clarke was born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 21, 1964, and graduated from Edward R. Murrow High School in 1982. She attended Oberlin College from 1982 to 1986. The House historian lists her early work as a childcare specialist, a staff member for state senator Velmanette Montgomery from 1989 to 1991, an executive assistant at the New York state Workers' Compensation Board from 1992 to 1993, a youth program director and a business development director.

She served on the New York City Council from 2002 to 2007 and was an unsuccessful candidate for nomination to the 109th Congress in 2004. She was elected as a Democrat to the 110th Congress and has served in the House since January 3, 2007. She sits on the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Her House biography says she has been a member of the Congressional Black Caucus since 2007 and serves as its chair.