Jahana Hayes is a Democratic Representative for Connecticut’s 5th congressional district, having served in the U.S. House of Representatives since January 3, 2019. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on July 24, 1976, Hayes completed her education with a B.A. from Wayne State University in 1998 and a J.D. from Western Michigan University in 2004. Before entering Congress, she worked as a lawyer and had significant involvement in education, including a tenure as a secondary school teacher and a recognition as the 2016 National Teacher of the Year.
Throughout her congressional career, Hayes has gained attention for her commitment to educational reform, social justice, and women's rights. Among her legislative efforts, she has sponsored significant bills aimed at improving access to resources for educators and students, such as the Respect, Advancement, and Increasing Support for Educators Act of 2025 (HB1611) which seeks to enhance support for teachers and elevate the status of education in federal policy.
Hayes has also demonstrated a firm stance on issues related to social equity and health care access. Her involvement in bills like the Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act (HB1620) reflects her dedication to expanding coverage for essential health services. Furthermore, she has active participation in addressing food insecurity with initiatives such as the Hunger-Free Future Act of 2025 (HB2489), which aims to create sustainable pathways to alleviate child hunger.
Hayes is part of several prominent committees, including the Committee on Education and Labor, and the Committee on Oversight and Reform, where she plays a vital role in shaping policy related to education, health care, and transparency in government operations. Her co-sponsorship of the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act (HB2595) emphasizes her focus on enhancing child care services, which are critical for supporting working families.
Politically, Jahana Hayes aligns closely with progressive ideals, evident in her advocacy for comprehensive reforms in education, social justice, and environmental accountability. She has been an outspoken critic of policies that perpetuate systemic inequalities, often promoting legislation that addresses the needs of underserved communities. Her sponsorship of bills aimed at environmental justice, healthcare accessibility, and educational equity signal her commitment to progressive values that prioritize the welfare of diverse populations, particularly children and marginalized groups.
Jahana Hayes has also faced challenges during her tenure, notably being censured by the House of Representatives on November 7, 2023, for controversial remarks related to conflicts in the Middle East. Despite this, she continues to serve in her district, reflecting her resilience and commitment to her constituents amid national discourse surrounding her views.
Outside her professional life, Hayes has a diverse background that includes her formative experiences in Michigan's education system, which influenced her path toward advocacy for teachers and students alike. Her personal narrative enriches her political pursuits, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by families and educators in today’s society. As she continues her work in Congress, Hayes's focus remains steadfast on promoting equity, access, and representation across all sectors.