Norma Torres (35)

Norma Judith Torres , born April 4, 1965, is a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives representing California's 35th congressional district in the Inland Empire, including cities such as Montclair, Ontario, Pomona, and parts of Chino, Chino Hills, Eastvale, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, and Upland. She previously served as mayor and city council member in Pomona, a California State Assembly member, and a State Senator for the 32nd district.

Education and Political Experience

Torres earned a bachelor's degree in labor studies from the National Labor College in Maryland in 2012. Her political career began on the Pomona city council, followed by election as mayor in 2006; she then won election to the State Assembly in 2008. Elected to the U.S. House in 2014, she is now in her fifth term, serving on the House Appropriations Committee and Committee on House Administration, with prior roles on Rules, Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, and Natural Resources.

Notable Achievements and Positions

Torres has a strong pro-choice record, earning a 100% rating from NARAL Pro-Choice America. As State Senator, she chaired the Committee on Housing and Community Development, securing $2 billion in federal funds for the "Keep Your Home California" program to aid families during the foreclosure crisis, and advanced Affordable Care Act implementation in California. On Foreign Affairs, she successfully pushed an amendment requiring the Secretary of State to report corrupt officials in Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala, adopted into the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019.