Biography

A prominent member of the House of Representatives from Illinois, the Congressman was born in New York City on April 30, 1956. He graduated from Rhodes Prep High School before pursuing higher education at Bradley University, where he earned both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He later obtained a Ph.D. from Northern Illinois University in 2004.

Before entering Congress, he accumulated extensive experience in public service, having served in various roles, including as a counselor and community affairs director in Matteson, Illinois, and as the chief administrative officer for Cook County. His political career began in the Illinois State House of Representatives, where he served from 2003 to 2007. This was followed by a position as Chief of Staff to the State Treasurer of Illinois from 2007 to 2010. In 2013, he was elected to the U.S. Congress in a special election to fill the vacancy left by Jesse L. Jackson, Jr. Since then, he has been re-elected multiple times, reflecting his ongoing commitment to his constituents.

The Congressman is currently a member of several key committees, including the Committee on Education and Labor as well as the Committee on Oversight and Reform. His legislative focus has often included education, healthcare, and community issues.

Throughout his time in Congress, he has sponsored and co-sponsored notable legislation aimed at addressing a variety of issues, demonstrating his legislative priorities and political leanings. For instance, he introduced the Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2025 (HB2399), which seeks to ensure that funding for broadband deployment is allocated efficiently, especially in high-cost rural areas, emphasizing access to technology for underserved communities. Additionally, the Congressman has supported the Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2025 (HB1909), which aims to amplify funding for state-based maternal mortality review committees, highlighting his concern for maternal health and women's issues.

In terms of personal life, the Congressman is known for his dedication to community affairs and public service, often drawing upon his experiences to influence his legislative efforts. While specific details about his family or personal life have not been publicly disclosed, his professional background and commitment to serving others underscore his passion for improving lives through both policy and community engagement.

The Congressman tends to lean towards progressive policies, advocating for equity in broadband access, support for maternal health initiatives, and addressing systemic issues such as healthcare disparities. His advocacy for significant federal support for important social issues illustrates a commitment to fostering improvement in critical sectors affecting his constituents.

In summary, the Congressman has established himself as a dedicated public servant with a clear focus on education, healthcare, and community advocacy in his legislative agenda, embodying the values and needs of the constituents he represents.