Derrick Graham (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Derrick Graham
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| Minority Leader of the Kentucky House of Representatives | |
| In office January 3, 2023 – January 1, 2025 |
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| Preceded by | Joni Jenkins |
| Succeeded by | Pamela Stevenson |
| Member of the Kentucky House of Representatives from the 57th district |
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| In office January 1, 2003 – January 1, 2025 |
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| Preceded by | Gippy Graham |
| Succeeded by | Erika Hancock |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Derrick Wayne Graham
June 9, 1958 Frankfort, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Education | Kentucky State University (BA) Ohio State University (MA) |
Derrick Wayne Graham (born June 9, 1958) is an American politician. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served in the Kentucky House of Representatives for the 57th district. This district includes Frankfort, Kentucky, the capital city of Kentucky. He served from January 2003 until January 2025.
In 2023, Graham made history. He became the first African American to lead a group of lawmakers in the Kentucky House of Representatives. This group is called a legislative caucus. Graham decided not to run for reelection in 2024.
About Derrick Graham
Derrick Graham studied at two universities. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts, from Kentucky State University. He studied history and political science. Later, he earned a second degree, a Master of Arts, in political science from Ohio State University.
For most of his career, Graham was a teacher. He taught social studies at Frankfort High School. In the 1990s, he also served his community. He was elected as a city commissioner for Frankfort.
Serving in the Kentucky House
Derrick Graham served the 57th district in the Kentucky House of Representatives for many years. He first ran for the seat in 1994 but did not win that election.
In 2002, the seat became open again. Graham won the Democratic Primary election. He then won the General election on November 5, 2002. He received 8,209 votes, which was 61.9% of the total.
Graham continued to win his elections. He often ran without anyone opposing him in the primary or general elections. This showed strong support from his district. He served continuously from January 2003 until January 2025.
