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Darrell L. Clarke
LandCare Reentry Initiative Pilot Press Conference 1-27-2016 (24642337816).jpg
Chair of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board
Assumed office
November 22, 2024
Preceded by Tim Holden
Member of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board
Assumed office
February 8, 2024
President of the Philadelphia City Council
In office
January 2, 2012 – January 1, 2024
Preceded by Anna Verna
Succeeded by Kenyatta Johnson
Member of the Philadelphia City Council
from the 5th district
In office
May 18, 1999 – January 1, 2024
Preceded by John Street
Succeeded by Jeffery Young Jr.
Personal details
Born (1952-09-17) September 17, 1952 (age 72)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Political party Democratic

Darrell L. Clarke, born on September 17, 1952, is an American politician. He was a member of the Philadelphia City Council for many years, from 1999 to 2024. He represented the 5th District of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From 2012 to 2024, he was the president of the City Council. Currently, he is the chairman of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.

Early Life and Education

Darrell Clarke grew up in North Philadelphia, in a neighborhood called Strawberry Mansion. He went to Edison High School and graduated. He also attended the Community College of Philadelphia. Today, he lives in the Fishtown neighborhood.

Political Journey

Clarke started his political journey by becoming a committeeman. He then worked as an aide for John F. Street, who was a City Council member for almost 30 years. Later, Clarke became Street's chief of staff.

Joining the City Council

In December 1998, John Street left his City Council seat to run for mayor. He supported Darrell Clarke to take his place. In a special election in 1999, Clarke won the seat.

Time on the City Council

Darrell Clarke served on the Philadelphia City Council for many years. He was the Chair of the Fiscal Stability and Public Property Committees. He was also the Vice Chairman of the Appropriations Committee. In 2012, he was chosen to be the President of the City Council. He held this important role until January 2024.

One of Clarke's actions was introducing a bill about the Cradle of Liberty Council of the Boy Scouts of America. This bill aimed to end the city's financial support for their headquarters.

Role at the PA Liquor Control Board

On September 1, 2023, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro nominated Darrell Clarke to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB). The PA Senate approved his nomination on February 8, 2024. On November 22, 2024, Governor Shapiro named Clarke as the chairman of the PLCB. This happened after Tim Holden retired from the position.

Family Life

Darrell Clarke's father, Jerry, was also involved in politics as a party committeeman. His mother, Ruth, worked for the Veterans Administration. Clarke has one daughter, Dr. Nicole Bright, and a grandson.

See Also

  • List of members of Philadelphia City Council since 1952

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