Born on October 24, 1979, in Bakersfield, California, this member of Congress has a robust educational background with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, obtained in 2001, followed by a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University in 2003. Their political career began as a legislative staff member for former U.S. Representatives William Marshall Thomas and Kevin McCarthy, which laid the groundwork for their subsequent roles in public service.
Transitioning into state politics, they served in the California State Assembly from 2016 to 2024, earning a reputation for being actively engaged with issues related to their constituency. In 2024, they were elected to the U.S. House of Representatives after a special election to succeed McCarthy, marking a return to federal service. They were later re-elected in 2024, reflecting a continued commitment to their legislative goals.
In Congress, this representative is a member of several key committees, including the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, along with the Aviation Subcommittee. Their committee assignments are indicative of their focus on technological advancement, infrastructure development, and addressing vital national concerns, such as safety in air travel and the management of environmental resources.
Throughout their tenure, the member has sponsored a range of significant legislation, focusing primarily on water management, educational reform, and emergency response capabilities:
House Bill 215 - WATER for California Act: This bill, which aims to provide operational reforms and enhance the management of California's water resources, was placed on the Union Calendar, demonstrating significant traction in the legislative process. It addresses vital needs for water allocation amid ongoing drought conditions, underscoring the representative's commitment to agriculture and community resilience.
House Bill 390 - ACERO Act: This proposed legislation aims to enhance aerial wildfire response efforts through advanced technologies, including uncrewed aircraft systems. It emphasizes the importance of effective disaster response strategies amid increasing wildfire incidents, showcasing a proactive approach to emergency management.
House Bill 833 - Educational Choice for Children Act: By proposing tax credits for donations to scholarship organizations, this bill seeks to expand educational opportunities for families, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds. This initiative indicates a significant shift towards private contributions in education, reflecting the member's advocacy for educational reform and parental choice.
House Joint Resolution 78: This resolution seeks to disapprove new endangered species protections for the Longfin Smelt, highlighting a legislative focus on balancing ecological and economic interests. Discussions surrounding the resolution indicate the representative's willingness to engage in contentious environmental debates.
The member's legislative record illustrates a political stance that leans towards local and agricultural development, while also embracing technology and efficiency in public services. The measures they sponsor show a deep-rooted commitment to their constituents' needs, particularly concerning resource management and educational opportunities. Their initiatives reflect a broader philosophy of empowering communities through practical legislative solutions, which may appeal to conservative voters who prioritize economic growth and educational access.
Outside of their legislative efforts, personal and familial details, including potential background in local business or community service, are not provided in the available biography, limiting a more comprehensive picture of their personal life. However, their professional journey indicates a commitment to public service and a systematic approach to addressing the complexities and challenges faced by their district and the state of California.