Issues

Economy and Jobs

Our country has come a long way since 2008 when our nation experienced the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. Since that time, I’m proud to say our economy has significantly recovered. Unemployment has been cut in half, household wealth now exceeds pre-crisis levels, and we’ve had the longest streak of private-sector job growth in our history. However, it’s indisputable that too many Americans still aren’t experiencing the benefits of our growing economy.

Education

An investment in our children's education is an investment in our country's future. The importance of providing our children the best possible education cannot be overstated, especially as so many Americans battle economic hardship. That’s why I have made modernizing and improving our school system a top priority during my time in Congress.

Energy and Environment

Protecting our environment is a top priority of mine and one of the reasons I entered public service. I will continue working with my colleagues to address the realities of climate change, and will dedicate my time in Congress to supporting legislation that protects our communities and develops strategies to combat the many threats facing our environment.

Health Care

Since coming to Congress in 2009, I have been a strong supporter of policies that will improve the overall health of my constituents. This includes supporting the Affordable Care Act, advocating for robust biomedical research funding and protecting Medicare for seniors.

Immigration

The United States has always been a nation of immigrants. It’s essential that our immigration policies reflect this country’s rich history of diversity and the countless contributions that immigrants have and continue to make. History tells us that comprehensive immigration reform raises wages, creates jobs, and generates additional tax revenue. That’s why I will continue to work towards pragmatic solutions that reform our broken immigration system, keep our borders secure, and provide a pathway to citizenship for the millions of undocumented immigrants currently living in the shadows.

Defense and Foreign Affairs

During my 8 years as a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I gained a unique understanding of the threats facing our country and what we are doing to stop them. I have also traveled to over 50 countries, including war zones from Gaza to Ukraine, Iraq to Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay. Each trip has highlighted the vital role we play in protecting the international order.

LGBTQI+ Rights

Whether it’s fighting for marriage equality, opposing senseless discrimination, or standing up for those who cannot defend themselves, I believe that we must be guided by doing what’s right, what’s fair, and what’s just. Our country is at its best when all voices are heard and represented equally and we must always strive towards that goal.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Transportation and infrastructure has served as the backbone of our economic success for generations. But today, our crumbling infrastructure is slowing economic growth and hurting our ability to create jobs. Now more than ever, it is important to invest in long-term projects seeking to modernize our national infrastructure, provide efficient and safe transportation of goods and people, and reduce congestion and pollution.

Appropriations

Securing robust federal funding through the appropriations process is critical for safety and economic growth of the Fifth District, Chicago, and Illinois. And as your representative, I will continue to be a strong advocate for critical investments that continue to position Chicago as a 21st century city.

Gun Violence Prevention

Our nation is enduring a gun violence epidemic. Sadly, the tragedy of gun violence in America is compounded by another tragedy in Congress: the tragedy of inaction. That’s why I refuse to standby idly while thousands of Americans die each year due to gun violence.

Reproductive Rights

Put simply, abortion care is health care. The overturning of the landmark decision, Roe v. Wade, is a shocking reversal of a half-century of settled law on reproductive rights. Since the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, access to reproductive health care has been threatened for millions of Americans, with a disproportionate impact on women of color. Bodily autonomy is not solely a women’s issue — it’s a civil rights issue and an American issue.

Government Transparency

Good government is best characterized by openness, honesty and integrity. Transparency in government promotes accountability and helps foster public trust. As Justice Brandeis said, “Sunlight is the best of disinfectants.” That’s why I have made government reform, transparency and fiscal responsibility priorities during my time in Congress.

Holding the White House Accountable

Since President Donald Trump's second inauguration, I have been working hard to oppose his dangerous actions. From cosponsoring legislation to limit Elon Musk's access to sensitive data to speaking out on the House floor, I am determined to use every lever at Democrats' disposal to stand up to Donald Trump. Check this page for regular updates on the actions I've taken and make sure to subscribe to my newsletter for a weekly rundown of my latest work.

Racial Justice

Every day that I serve in Congress in Washington, D.C., I walk through our Capitol, which serves as a symbol of freedom and democracy at home and around the world. But I’m also struck by the fact that it is a building built by enslaved people and is still filled with numerous statues commemorating Confederate leaders. As we reckon with that past, we must find ways to pursue justice every day here in the present. It is my responsibility to listen and help build a future where American policy reflects the fundamental truth that Black lives matter.

Animal Welfare

As an animal lover and dog dad to Maisie and Finneas, advocating for animal protection is very important to me. Animals bring great joy to our lives—they also play a crucial role in our environment and public safety.