A Democratic representative from Missouri, this politician was born on July 21, 1976, in St. Louis. Their educational path includes graduating from Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School, attending Harris-Stowe State University, and earning a diploma from Lutheran School of Nursing. Prior to entering politics, they worked as a teacher, nurse, pastor, and community organizer. They have attempted candidacies for higher office, including an unsuccessful run for the U.S. Senate in 2016 and a campaign for the One Hundred Sixteenth Congress in 2018, before being elected to the One Hundred Seventeenth Congress, serving from January 3, 2021, to January 3, 2025.

In Congress, this representative has been active in various committees, focusing particularly on issues such as health care, education, and civil rights. The representative has sponsored and co-sponsored numerous legislative initiatives aimed at expanding healthcare access and promoting social equity. Notably, they introduced the Insulin for All Act of 2023 (HB1485) which aims to ensure that all individuals have access to affordable insulin. Additionally, they were a primary sponsor of the Protecting Access to Medication Abortion Act of 2023 (HB767), addressing reproductive health rights.

Several other key bills sponsored by this representative include the Child Care Stabilization Act (HB5433), focusing on stabilizing the child care sector, and the LGBTQI+ Data Inclusion Act (HB3970), which aims to ensure that LGBTQI+ communities are accurately represented in data collection. These initiatives suggest a strong commitment to health equity, social justice, and supporting vulnerable populations.

The political leanings of this representative align with progressive Democratic values, evidenced by their support for a range of bills designed to improve healthcare access, promote civil rights, and enhance social services. Their legislative focus often addresses systemic inequities, such as the challenges faced by marginalized groups, health disparities, and economic inequality. They advocate for local governance solutions to healthcare issues, exemplified by their support for the COVER Now Act (HB31), which allows local governments to provide health benefits to populations eligible for Medicaid expansion.

As part of their commitment to their constituents, this member continues to seek legislative solutions addressing pressing societal challenges, particularly those affecting health care, education, and civil rights. They have indicated a willingness to focus on community-specific needs, reflecting their background as a community organizer.