Born on October 6, 1959, in Buffalo, New York, this Representative has built a long and distinguished career in public service and education. He graduated from South Park High School in 1978 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1984 and a Master of Arts in 1985 from Buffalo State College. He further advanced his education with a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University in 1996. His career began in academia, serving as a lecturer at Buffalo State College, but he also has extensive experience in local government, having served on the Buffalo Common Council from 1988 to 1994 and in the New York State Assembly from 1999 to 2004.

As a member of Congress since January 3, 2005, he has been elected as a Democrat to the One Hundred Ninth and to the nine succeeding Congresses until his resignation on February 2, 2024. Alongside his political career, he has worked as a nonprofit executive, contributing his expertise to public service and advocacy.

Throughout his tenure, he has been an active participant in several committees and has sponsored a variety of legislation. He has focused on issues such as healthcare, civil rights, and public safety. Noteworthy legislation he has co-sponsored includes the Medicare Dental, Vision, and Hearing Benefit Act of 2023 (HB33) aimed at expanding Medicare coverage for essential dental, vision, and hearing care. This reflects a commitment to enhancing healthcare access for elderly and vulnerable populations.

Additionally, he co-sponsored the Rosa Parks Day Act (HB308) to establish Rosa Parks Day as a federal holiday, highlighting his dedication to acknowledging the contributions of civil rights leaders to American history. Another significant bill he has endorsed is the Weather Alert Response and Notification Act (HB2892), which aims to improve emergency alert systems in response to climate-related disasters, demonstrating an awareness of the growing impact of climate change on public safety.

His legislative action includes engagement in issues surrounding gun safety, as evidenced by his involvement in bills like the Closing the Bump Stock Loophole Act (HB396). He has also been a proponent of reproductive rights through sponsorship of the Women's Health Protection Act (HB12), advocating for the protection of abortion services without governmental restrictions.

The scope of his political initiatives indicates a progressive stance, particularly on healthcare, civil rights, and social justice. By supporting measures aimed at expanding healthcare access, honoring civil rights, and promoting safety and equity, his legislative record aligns well with the Democratic Party's platform, focusing on improving conditions for marginalized communities and enhancing individual rights.

With a career deeply rooted in public service and advocacy, this Representative's work continues to resonate within the halls of Congress, shaping policies that impact millions of Americans. He has shown a strong commitment to addressing contemporary issues while promoting the fundamental values of equality and social justice.