Delaware Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester and Angela Alsobrooks of Prince George’s County, Maryland made history Tuesday night when they became the first two Black women to serve in the Senate simultaneously.

The two women, both Democrats, are the first Black women elected to the Senate from their states.

Blunt Rochester defeated Republican Eric Hansen. She will fill the seat left vacant by fellow Democrat Tom Carper, who handpicked her as his preferred successor when he announced his retirement last year. 

Alsobrooks defeated Republican former Gov. Larry Hogan for the historic seat.

Alsobrooks is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. The sorority’s international president Elise Cook-Holmes said in statement about Alsobrooks that her achievement marks a profound milestone and follows in the footsteps of Honorary Delta Sigma Theta Member Carol Moseley Braun, the first African American woman elected to the U.S. Senate.

“Soror Alsobrooks’ triumph is a testament to her relentless commitment to supporting communities, championing justice, and amplifying voices that are too often unheard,” said Holmes in a statement. “Her leadership shines brightly as a beacon of hope and possibility, inspiring countless Black women and girls across the nation to pursue public service and create meaningful change.”

Holmes also congratulated Blunt Rochester who is an honorary member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. We also join in celebrating our Divine Nine sister Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware in her historic election to the U.S. Senate.”

The Senate has never had two Black women serve at the same time. Before Alsobrooks and Blunt Rochester, Vice President Kamala Harris was the second Black woman and first South Asian woman to serve. 

 Sen. Laphonza Butler made history last year as the first Black and openly lesbian senator in Congress when California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed her to fill the seat held by the late Dianne Feinstein.