Deborah K. Ross is a representative for North Carolina's 2nd congressional district, serving in the U.S. House of Representatives since January 3, 2021. Born on June 20, 1963, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Ross earned an A.B. from Brown University in 1985 and a J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 1990. Prior to her congressional career, she worked as a private practice lawyer and served as the state director of the American Civil Liberties Union from 1994 to 2002. Ross has also held a seat in the North Carolina state house of representatives from 2003 to 2013 and ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 2016.

In Congress, Ross has undertaken significant legislative work across various domains, showing particular interest in social issues, environmental matters, and healthcare. She is a co-sponsor of the Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act of 2025 (HB1423) which aims at ensuring equitable educational benefits for guard and reserve members as compared to active-duty service members. This reflects Ross's commitment to veterans' rights and support for military families.

Additionally, she co-sponsored the Saving NASA's Workforce Act (HB2210), aimed at preserving jobs within NASA during periods of budget reevaluation and restructuring. Her sponsorship of such bills indicates an alignment with initiatives that prioritize federal workforce stability and technological advancement.

Another key piece of legislation from Ross's repertoire includes the Insurance Fraud Accountability Act (HB2079), which aims to address insurance fraud, showing her focus on consumer protection and regulatory integrity.

On committees, Ross serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Education and Labor, allowing her to contribute to significant discussions and policies regarding natural resource management, education reform, and labor rights. Her role in these committees complements her legislative initiatives, such as her involvement in the Raise the Wage Act of 2025 (HB2743), which aims to incrementally increase the federal minimum wage to address rising living costs.

Analyzing Ross's legislative history, her political leanings reflect a strong progressive orientation. She actively supports measures aimed at elevating social justice, economic equality, and environmental sustainability. By endorsing bills that enhance workforce protections, promote educational opportunities, and ensure equitable treatment for service members and veterans, Ross positions herself firmly within the progressive wing of the Democratic Party.

Ross lives in North Carolina, where her professional roots as a lawyer and public servant continue to inform her legislative approach. Her engagement in community issues is evident in her relentless advocacy for policies that support underrepresented populations and stimulate local economies. Through her legislative actions and committee engagements, Deborah K. Ross demonstrates a steadfast commitment to fostering transformative policies aimed at uplifting her constituents and advancing national interests.