A Senator from Pennsylvania, this politician was born in Scranton on April 13, 1960. He graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in 1982 and earned a J.D. from the Catholic University of America in 1988. Following his education, he practiced law in Scranton and served as Pennsylvania Auditor General from 1997 to 2005. He ran for governor in 2002 but was unsuccessful and later served as Pennsylvania State Treasurer from 2005 to 2006. He was elected to the United States Senate in 2006 as a member of the Democratic Party and has since been reelected in 2012 and 2018. His current term is set to conclude on January 3, 2025. He has held significant roles, including vice-chair and then chair of the Joint Economic Committee and chairing the Special Committee on Aging during the 117th and 118th Congresses.

In his legislative career, he has sponsored a variety of bills that reflect his commitment to social justice, healthcare reform, and economic equity. Among the notable bills he has co-sponsored is the Improving Health Insurance Affordability Act of 2023 (SB8), which aims to expand the eligibility for refundable tax credits for health coverage and increase cost-sharing subsidies under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). This bill highlights his focus on making healthcare more accessible and affordable for low to middle-income families, reflecting a broader Democratic agenda on health reform.

Additionally, he has supported the Ending Trading and Holdings in Congressional Stocks (ETHICS) Act (SB1171), which seeks to prevent conflicts of interest among elected officials by requiring members of Congress to divest from stocks while in office. This initiative is a response to growing concerns about the ethics of stock trading by lawmakers, suggesting his stance on ensuring transparency and accountability in government.

He has also actively supported legislation aimed at civil rights, such as the Korematsu-Takai Civil Liberties Protection Act of 2023 (SB129), which seeks to protect the civil liberties of individuals and promote justice and equity in the legal system.

Through his legislative endeavors, he demonstrates a pattern of promoting policies that align with progressive values, particularly in healthcare, ethics, and civil rights. His support for the expansion of health insurance affordability aligns with the Democratic emphasis on public welfare and social safety nets. Furthermore, his actions regarding ethics reform illustrate a commitment to restoring public trust in government.

In addition to his professional work, this senator has maintained a personal connection to his roots in Pennsylvania and emphasized the importance of community engagement and local news, evident through his sponsorship of the National Community Health Worker Awareness Week resolution. His engagement in local issues underscores his belief in the power of grassroots activism.

Overall, his legislative focus illustrates a commitment to progressive policies and social justice, championing initiatives that aim to enhance healthcare access, promote ethical governance, and protect civil rights for all citizens.