Congressional Black Caucus Silent on West

Republican Rep.-elect Allen West of Florida announced last week that he intends to join the Congressional Black Caucus. But the group hasn’t yet responded as to whether it will welcome the tea-party-backed freshman, The Hill reports.

West said last week that he wants to challenge the group's dogma. “I plan on joining, I'm not gonna ask for permission or whatever, I'm gonna find out when they meet and I will be a member of the Congressional Black Caucus," West said. "I meet all of the criteria, and it's so important that we break down this monolithic voice that continues to talk about victimization and dependency in the black community.

A CBC spokesperson Monday declined to comment on West's bid. The CBC currently consists of all Democrats – 41 House members and outgoing Illinois Sen. Roland Burris.