Kweisi Mfume is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Maryland's 7th congressional district since January 3, 2017. Born on December 13, 1962, in Washington, D.C., he graduated from Georgetown Day High School before earning his A.B. from Harvard College in 1983 and a J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1987. Mfume has a significant history in public service, having previously served as a member of the Maryland State Senate from 2007 to 2016, where he held the position of majority whip. He also has experience as an assistant attorney general in Massachusetts and as a law professor at American University, a role he held from 1990 to 2017.
During his tenure in Congress, Mfume has been involved in several notable legislative efforts and committee assignments. He is a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor as well as the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, where he has applied his legal expertise to various legislative issues.
Mfume has sponsored and co-sponsored a number of bills that highlight his legislative priorities. Among these is the proposed John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2025, aimed at protecting voting rights and enhancing access to the electoral process. He is also associated with the Justice Thurgood Marshall National Historic Site Establishment Act of 2025, reflecting his commitment to civil rights and historic preservation.
In the area of governmental accountability, Mfume has shown support for legislative efforts that aim to ensure fairness and transparency. This includes his co-sponsorship of the Equal COLA Act, which proposes to align cost-of-living adjustments for federal retirees, and the Inaugural Fund Integrity Act, set to limit donations to inaugural committees and enhance transparency regarding campaign finance.
Mfume's political leanings can be characterized as progressive, with a focus on civil rights, academic support, and governmental transparency. His advocacy on legislation related to voting rights demonstrates his commitment to increasing voter participation, particularly for marginalized communities. Furthermore, his legislative support for environmental justice initiatives enhances his profile as a representative focused on equity and fairness across various domains.
Outside of his political life, Kweisi Mfume has previously held various roles in community service and advocacy, reflecting a dedication to public welfare. His family background and commitment to public education further underscore his belief in empowering individuals through education and civic engagement.
Overall, Kweisi Mfume represents a blend of legal expertise and passionate advocacy for civil and voting rights, with a track record of public service that spans decades. His current legislative efforts continue to focus on creating a more equitable and just society for all Americans.