Representative Chris Smith, Republican from New Jersey

Chris Smith

Representative · New Jersey · Republican

Chris Smith

House Floor

Recent comments in the House

Madam Speaker, 50 years ago, on September 30, 1976, Congress first enacted an amendment offered by the late great Congressman Henry Hyde of Illinois to prohibit Federal Medicaid funding from being used to subsidize the killing of unborn children by abortion. During a debate in the House, right here, 50 years ago, Henry said: ``An innocent, defenseless human life, in a caring and humane society deserves better than to be flushed down a toilet or burned in an incinerator. The promise of America,'' Henry Hyde said, ``is that life is not just for the privileged, the planned, or the perfect.'' Mr.
HYDE AMENDMENT'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY··Share
I thank Brett for what he is doing. I thank his staff and my friends on the other side of the aisle for their work on this bill. This has been a bipartisan effort. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to pass S. 2398, a 5-year reauthorization of the Kay Hagan Tick Act, a law that expires on September 30. It was sponsored by Senator Collins of Maine. My colleagues will recall that our distinguished colleague from North Carolina, Senator Kay Hagan, suffered a tick bite and died in 2019 from encephalitis caused by the Powassan virus. The current law and reauthorization are named in her honor.
On S. 2398··Share
Mr. Chair, my amendment addresses a stark and increasing threat to our Nation's critical infrastructure, the malicious use of drones, especially their use around critical military installations and law enforcement vessels. Amendment No. 283 requires the Inspector General of the Department of War to produce a report to Congress regarding Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) activity around military installations in the United States and abroad, sensitive national security sites, military and law enforcement vessels, and the capabilities possessed by installations to counter this activity, protocols…
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2027··Share
Biography
Chris Smith began his career as the executive director of a nonprofit focused on supporting individuals with disabilities. Elected to represent New Jersey’s 4th Congressional District in 1980, he has prioritized human rights, veterans’ issues, and combating human trafficking throughout his tenure. Smith authored the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, a landmark law enhancing protections for survivors, and serves as co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Pro-Life Caucus. He is known for his persistent advocacy and detailed approach to constituent service, working to ensure the voices of his district are heard in Congress.
Education
  • B.A., The College of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ
    1975
  • Attended, Worcester College
    1974
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    1981–Present

    Represented New Jersey's 4th congressional district for 23 terms.

  • Executive Director, New Jersey Right to Life Committee, Inc.

  • Businessman, Family-Owned Sport Wholesale Business

Policy Focus
International Affairs41%
Health12%
Crime and Law Enforcement8%
Government Operations and Politics4%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Chris Smith's record in Congress.

  • Combating Human Trafficking

    Authored the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, establishing new tools and funding to fight human trafficking domestically and internationally.

  • Autism Research Funding

    Led passage of the Autism CARES Act, increasing federal funding for autism research, services, and awareness.

  • Veterans' Health Benefits

    Secured expanded access to healthcare and benefits for veterans through the Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act.

  • International Religious Freedom

    Co-authored the International Religious Freedom Act, creating the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Foreign Affairs

Rep. Chris Smith FAQ

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