Bakari Sellers

Bakari Sellers is a two-time New York Times bestselling author, civil rights attorney, entrepreneur, and nationally respected voice on politics, culture, and justice. The son of educator Gwendolyn Sellers and legendary civil rights leader Cleveland Sellers—who worked alongside Stokely Carmichael, Bayard Rustin, and Malcolm X—Bakari has built his own influential legacy, shaping contemporary movements alongside leaders such as Rep. James Clyburn, Attorney Benjamin Crump, and President Barack Obama.

Bakari’s path has been marked by early achievement and sustained impact. He entered Morehouse College at just 16 years old, earned his law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law, and at age 22 became the youngest legislator in South Carolina history. Raised in Denmark, South Carolina, he carries forward the values of humility, service, and community that continue to inform his leadership and advocacy. He is the author of three books that reflect his personal journey and political insight: My Vanishing Country, a New York Times bestseller examining the erosion of opportunity in rural America; Who Are Your People?, a children’s book that celebrates heritage, identity, and belonging; and The Moment (2024), a powerful examination of national politics and public policy and their impact on Black communities across the United States. 

A longtime CNN political commentator, Bakari is known for elevating public discourse with clarity, urgency, and practical insight. In addition to hosting The Bakari Sellers Podcast on The Ringer Podcast Network, he joined Native Land Pod alongside Angela Rye, Tiffany Cross, and Andrew Gillum—bringing sharp political analysis and culturally grounded conversation to one of the nation’s leading political podcasts. 

Beyond media, Sellers has practiced law with the Strom Law Firm, L.L.C. in Columbia, South Carolina since 2007. As a civil rights attorney, he advocates for justice, accountability, and fair access within legal and public systems.

Bakari lives with his wife, Dr. Ellen Rucker-Sellers, and their three children. He continues to write, speak, and lead at the intersection of law, policy, and culture—working to ensure that the next generation inherits a country worthy of their dreams.