Born on August 11, 1958, in Flint, Michigan, this politician has a long history of community service and engagement. Educated in local schools, he completed his high school education at Flint Northern High School in 1976 before attending the University of Michigan, Flint, and earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University in 2011.

His career began in local governance as he served on the Flint Board of Education from 1977 to 1985. Following this, he became a member of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners from 1985 until 1997 and served as the county treasurer from 1997 to 2009. He has been instrumental in local development initiatives, notably as the founder of the Genesee County Land Bank and co-founder of the Center for Community Progress, focusing on revitalizing urban areas.

In 2013, he was elected as a Democrat to the United States House of Representatives, having represented Michigan's district through multiple terms. He is expected to continue serving until January 3, 2025, as he has chosen not to seek reelection for the 119th Congress.

Throughout his legislative career, he has served on several committees, which include the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Committee on Natural Resources. His robust participation in these committees illustrates his commitment to issues affecting his constituents and the nation, especially concerning infrastructure, environmental protections, and transparency.

He has sponsored and co-sponsored various significant pieces of legislation, many of which reflect his policy priorities and political leanings. Some of the key bills include:

• Justice for ALS Veterans Act of 2023 (HB3790): This bill aims to provide justice for veterans suffering from ALS, signaling a focus on veterans' health issues.
• Healthy Families Act (HB3409): This legislation seeks to promote family health, which aligns with his focus on healthcare reform.
• American Dream and Promise Act of 2023 (HB16): This bill provides pathways to permanent residency for certain non-U.S. nationals, highlighting his commitment to comprehensive immigration reform.
• Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act of 2023 (HB3018): This legislation aims to prevent gun violence by establishing a framework for extreme risk protection orders.

Analyzing his legislative actions, he exhibits a progressive political orientation, with a strong emphasis on social justice, healthcare access, and veterans' support. His sponsorship of the Healthy Families Act and the American Dream and Promise Act demonstrates his alignment with priority issues affecting marginalized communities and working families. His commitment to legislation such as the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order reflects a proactive approach to public safety and common-sense gun laws while navigating the complexities of Second Amendment rights.

He is married and has children, and his familial role complements his public service, as he often cites family as a cornerstone of community stability and welfare. His deep roots in Michigan and sustained engagement in local governance have shaped his understanding of the needs of his constituents, guiding his legislative agenda in Congress.

As he prepares to conclude his congressional tenure, he leaves behind a legacy marked by active community involvement and advocacy for equitable legislation aimed at enhancing the lives of those he represents.