Darrell L. Clarke facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Darrell L. Clarke
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| President of the Philadelphia City Council | |
| In office January 2, 2012 – January 1, 2024 |
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| Preceded by | Anna Verna |
| Succeeded by | Kenyatta Johnson |
| Member of the Philadelphia City Council from the 5th district |
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| In office May 18, 1999 – January 1, 2024 |
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| Preceded by | John Street |
| Succeeded by | Jeffery Young Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | September 17, 1952 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
Darrell L. Clarke (born September 17, 1952) is an American politician. He was a member of the Philadelphia City Council for many years. He represented the 5th District from 1999 to 2024. From 2012 to 2024, he also served as the president of the City Council. He is a member of the Democratic Party.
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Early Life and Education
Darrell Clarke grew up in North Philadelphia. His childhood home was in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. He went to Edison High School. After high school, he attended the Community College of Philadelphia. He now lives in the Fishtown area of Philadelphia.
Political Career
Clarke followed in his father's footsteps by getting involved in politics. His father, Jerry, was a party committeeman. Darrell Clarke started his own political journey as a committeeman.
He became an aide to John Street. An aide helps a politician with their daily tasks and projects. John Street represented the Fifth District for almost 30 years. He later became the Council President. Clarke eventually became Street's chief of staff, which is a top assistant role.
Becoming a City Council Member
In December 1998, John Street left his City Council seat to run for mayor. He supported Darrell Clarke to take his place. Clarke ran in a special election in 1999. He won the election by a very small number of votes, just 140 more than his opponents. After a close election, some questions were raised, but the final decision confirmed Clarke's win.
Time on the City Council
During his time on the City Council, Clarke held important roles. He was once the Majority Whip. This means he helped make sure members of his party voted together on important issues.
He also chaired, or led, the Fiscal Stability and Public Property Committees. These committees deal with the city's money and its buildings. He was also the Vice Chairman of the Appropriations Committee. This committee decides how the city's money is spent.
In 2012, Darrell Clarke was chosen to be the Council President. He took over from Anna Verna, who was retiring. As Council President, he led the meetings of the City Council.
One of Clarke's actions as Council President involved a building lease. He introduced a bill to end the city's lease agreement for the headquarters of the local Boy Scouts of America council. This led to a legal disagreement. In the end, a federal court ruled against the city. The City of Philadelphia had to pay a large amount of money for legal fees.
Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB)
After leaving the City Council, Clarke was nominated for a new role. On September 1, 2023, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro nominated him to the PLCB. The PLCB manages the sale of alcoholic beverages in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Senate approved his nomination on February 8, 2024.
Later, on November 22, 2024, Governor Shapiro nominated Clarke to be the chairman of the PLCB. This nomination is currently waiting for approval from the Pennsylvania Senate.
Personal Life
Darrell Clarke's mother, Ruth, worked for the Veterans Administration. He has one daughter, Dr. Nicole Bright. He also has a grandson.
See also
- List of members of Philadelphia City Council since 1952
Images for kids
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Darrell L. Clarke speaking at a press conference.
