Gregory Meeks (NY-5)

Biography

Gregory Weldon Meeks, born on September 25, 1953, in East Harlem, New York City, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving New York's 5th Congressional District since 1998. Raised in a public housing project, Meeks was inspired by his parents' strong work ethic and commitment to social justice. He has dedicated his career to public service, focusing on economic development, healthcare access, and foreign affairs.

Education and Political Experience

• Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from Adelphi University
  • Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law

• Political Experience:

  • Assistant District Attorney, Queens County, New York
  • Supervising Judge, New York State Workers' Compensation Board
  • Member, New York State Assembly
  • U.S. Representative, New York's 6th Congressional District
  • U.S. Representative, New York's 5th Congressional District

Notable Achievements and Positions

• Committee Leadership:

  • Chairman, House Foreign Affairs Committee ; first African American to hold this position
  • Ranking Member, House Foreign Affairs Committee
  • Senior Member, House Financial Services Committee

• Caucus Memberships:

  • Member, Congressional Black Caucus
  • Member, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus
  • Member, New Democrat Coalition
  • Member, Pro-Choice Caucus
  • Member, Equality Caucus

• Legislative Focus:

  • Advocate for economic development and job creation in his district
  • Proponent of affordable healthcare and housing
  • Supporter of comprehensive immigration reform
  • Champion for minority and women-owned business enterprises

Throughout his tenure, Representative Meeks has been recognized for his bipartisan approach and commitment to addressing the diverse needs of his constituents.