By Catherine Pugh
Special to the AFRO
Delegate N. Scott Phillips, a Democrat from Maryland’s 10th Legislative District, was unanimously chosen as chair of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland after Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins (D-District 20) was chosen to lead the House Ways and Means Committee by Speaker of the House Joseline Peña-Melnyk.
“I am excited and honored to lead this Caucus. The legacy of past leadership sets a high standard,” the new chair said.
Phillips is the first Black Caucus chair elected from Baltimore County. The attorney and management consultant said he will continue focusing on the Black agenda.
“Above all,”he said, “I am committed to working with my colleagues to prioritize Black Marylanders, whether it’s reforming youth justice, expanding expungements, strengthening childcare support, reducing racial disparities in traffic stops, addressing housing costs, closing health gaps or supporting generational wealth.”
The new Black Caucus chair said that these priorities are essential for advancing Black Marylanders and must remain central to their mission. Phillips affirmed, “This is the work of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland and I am honored to be the steward of the mission.”
Delegate Melissa Wells (D-District 45) also resigned as first vice chair of the Legislative Black Caucus after she was appointed as chair of the newly formed House Labor, Elections, and Government Committee. State Sen. Shaneka Henson was elected in her place.
Sen. Henson, a Democrat representing District 30A in Anne Arundel County, holds a juris doctorate from the University of Baltimore and is an active attorney. She was appointed to the House of Delegates in 2019 following the passing of Speaker Michael Busch, won election to the seat in 2023, and advanced to the State Senate in 2025 after Sen. Sarah Elfreth’s election to Congress.
“The Legislative Black Caucus has achieved meaningful progress,” Henson said. “My focus is on service and ensuring that all caucus members feel supported as we advocate for Maryland communities. I appreciate Chair Jheanelle Wilkins and First Vice Chair Melissa Wells for their leadership in advancing our work. I look forward to continuing this momentum with Chairman N. Scott Phillips.”
Founded in 1970 by then-Delegate Arthur King, the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland has expanded from its original 17 members to 67 members today.