A Representative from Virginia, born on May 27, 1968, in Washington, D.C., this politician graduated from Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, Maryland in 1986. They pursued higher education at the University of Maryland, College Park, earning a Bachelor of Arts in 1991, followed by a Juris Doctor degree from the College of William and Mary Law School in 1995. With a diverse career path, they worked as a lawyer in private practice and served as an assistant commonwealth attorney in Loudoun County, Virginia from 2001 to 2005. They were also a substitute judge in Loudoun from 2010 to 2011. Their political career includes serving in the Virginia State Senate from 2014 to 2018, and they were elected as a Democrat to the United States House of Representatives, taking office on January 3, 2019, and serving through the 118th Congress.
During their tenure in Congress, they have taken on various roles, including membership in multiple committees where they contributed to discussions and policymaking on critical issues. Their legislative activity includes co-sponsoring a variety of bills that highlight their political positions and priorities. For example, their support for the PARTNER with ASEAN Act (HB406), which aims to enhance diplomatic relations with Southeast Asian nations, indicates a focus on international cooperation and trade. This bill seeks to recognize and provide certain privileges to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, underscoring a commitment to international diplomacy and regional stability.
Another significant piece of legislation they co-sponsored is the Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 (HB698), highlighting a stance on gun control and public safety measures. Additionally, their support for the Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2023 (HB715) further emphasizes their commitment to addressing gun violence through regulatory measures. The sentiment around these bills shows a strong Democratic alignment towards enhancing gun control laws, reflecting concerns regarding public safety.
In the realm of civil rights, they co-sponsored the Removing the Deadline for the Ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (HJR25), demonstrating a dedication to gender equity and women's rights. Their legislative activity also covers healthcare and labor issues, illustrated by support for the FAMILY Act (HB3481), which advocates for family and medical insurance leave.
This representative's political leanings can be characterized as progressive, with a clear focus on social justice, public safety, and international diplomacy. Their legislative efforts reflect an alignment with Democratic values, advocating for laws aimed at protecting civil and human rights, enhancing public safety, and fostering international cooperation.
While maintaining a public service focus, they have also actively engaged in community issues, seeking to represent constituents' voices in policy discussions. As of January 3, 2025, they intend to conclude their service in the House following their decision not to seek reelection for the 119th Congress.