US Representative

Mark DeSaulnier

Biography

Mark DeSaulnier is a Democratic Representative serving California's 10th congressional district. Born on March 31, 1952, in Lowell, Massachusetts, DeSaulnier graduated from Cranwell Preparatory School in 1970 and earned a Bachelor of Arts from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 1974. He has enjoyed a diverse career path that includes work as a deputy probation officer, warehouse worker, hotel service employee, and small business owner. Prior to his congressional career, he served on the Concord City Council, was the Mayor of Concord, and held a position on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. He was also a member of the California State Assembly and State Senate before being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015.

DeSaulnier is actively engaged in a range of legislative initiatives, primarily focusing on workforce protections, housing innovation, and mental health. His membership on several committees highlights his areas of interest: the Workforce Protections Subcommittee, the Ethics Committee, and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He has also served on the Aviation Subcommittee, where his efforts have contributed to legislative discussions on air travel safety and regulation.

Throughout his congressional tenure, DeSaulnier has co-sponsored significant bills aimed at improving public safety and healthcare access. One of the noteworthy pieces of legislation is the NOTAM Improvement Act of 2023 (HB346), which promotes better communication of flight operation information critical for aviation safety. Another crucial piece of legislation he co-sponsored is the Equality Act (HB15), which strives to prohibit discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This demonstrates DeSaulnier's commitment to promoting civil rights and ensuring equality for all individuals.

Additionally, DeSaulnier has shown support for various health-related initiatives, such as the Suicide Prevention Assistance Act (HB2044), which aims to expand resources for mental health support to combat rising suicide rates. His interest in housing is reflected in the Housing Innovation Act (HB855), which seeks to promote innovative housing solutions in California.

DeSaulnier's political leanings can be characterized by his advocacy for social equity, public health initiatives, and a commitment to sustainable infrastructure and economic development. His support for bills that enhance worker protections and address housing challenges indicates a focus on economic justice and community well-being. Furthermore, DeSaulnier's commitment to civil rights is evident in his involvement with legislation aimed at improving access for marginalized populations, including those related to LGBTQ+ rights.

Outside of his political endeavors, DeSaulnier's background in local governance and small business illustrates his understanding of community dynamics and the importance of fostering inclusive policies that benefit constituents at all levels. His dedication to public service is reflected not only in his legislative efforts but also in his earlier roles that laid the groundwork for his comprehensive understanding of the issues impacting diverse communities across California.