New Challenge to African Americans in Congress

Dallas/AP — For two decades, Texas congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson has been an outspoken voice for Democrats.

But for the first time, the first black woman to represent North Texas is facing serious opposition in the May 29 primary election. The effort to unseat her is one of several challenges being mounted against some of the longest-serving black members of Congress.

In Dallas, Detroit and New York City, longtime black incumbents are being challenged by a younger generation of black politicians who aren’t waiting for the old guard to retire.

A Michigan state senator is challenging 82-year-old Rep. John Conyers, the oldest black member of the House. And in New York, 80-year-old Rep. Charlie Rangel is also facing a tough re-election fight.