Born on July 29, 1957, in Tachikawa, Tokyo, Japan, this Representative has established a notable career in both the legal and political arenas. After graduating from South High School in Denver, Colorado in 1975, they earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Colorado College in 1979, followed by a Juris Doctor from New York University in 1982. Their legal career began with private practice before serving as a deputy in the appellate division of the Colorado State Public Defender's Office from 1982 to 1984.
Following their initial legal work, the Representative entered politics, serving in the Colorado State House of Representatives from 1992 to 1996. In 1997, they were elected as a Democrat to the U.S. House of Representatives and have been re-elected in subsequent Congresses, making significant legislative contributions. Notably, they served as one of the managers in the impeachment proceedings against former President Donald J. Trump in 2021.
The Representative is actively involved in various committees and strives to influence policy across multiple domains. Their legislative efforts have included support for numerous bills that reflect their commitment to public health, environmental protection, and civil rights.
Among the notable bills they co-sponsored is the Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2025 (HB1909), aimed at improving maternal health outcomes by increasing funding for state-based maternal mortality review committees to enhance collaboration among healthcare providers and state health agencies. The bill seeks to address rising concerns regarding maternal mortality rates, especially among marginalized populations.
Another significant piece of legislation is the America's Red Rock Wilderness Act (HB2467), which aims to designate parts of the Colorado Plateau and the Great Basin in Utah as wilderness areas to protect natural landscapes, wildlife habitats, and cultural heritage. The bill underscores the importance of environmental preservation in the face of development pressures.
The Representative has also engaged with issues of gun control, as evident in their co-sponsorship of the Federal Firearm Licensee Act (HB2618), which seeks to impose stricter regulations on firearm sales and enhances oversight of licensed dealers to reduce gun violence.
The Representative's legislative activity provides insight into their political leanings. Their focus on maternal health, environmental preservation, and gun control indicates a commitment to progressive issues. Bills concerning reproductive health and public health demonstrate a strong inclination toward enhancing welfare and health services, illustrating their support for women's rights and public safety.
Additionally, the Representative supports various resolutions aimed at civil rights, including those recognizing contributions to LGBTQ+ rights and educational reforms relating to Black history, indicating an advocacy for inclusivity and social justice.
As a member of significant committees, they continue to influence discussions on energy, environment, and healthcare initiatives. Their legislative initiatives often encounter robust debates, reflecting the broader political landscape where issues of funding, regulation, and civil rights are prominently contested.
In summary, this Representative's career reflects a deep commitment to public service and advocacy for progressive issues. Through their legislative efforts and committee work, they aim to address the pressing concerns affecting their constituents and the broader American society.