Emanuel Cleaver

Years in Office

20

Bills Sponsored

220

Bills Co-Sponsored

4168

Committees

1

Emanuel Cleaver Biography

Emanuel Cleaver began his career as a United Methodist pastor, grounding his public service in community engagement. Elected as the U.S. Representative for Missouri's 5th Congressional District in 2004, he has prioritized affordable housing, urban development, and financial inclusion. Cleaver chaired the Congressional Black Caucus and has authored legislation to expand access to housing and support minority-owned businesses. He is known for his collaborative approach and consistent advocacy for Kansas City's diverse communities.

Education

M.div., Saint Paul School of Theology, Kansas City, MO
(1974)
B.S. in Sociology, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX
(1972)

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(2005-Present)

Representing Missouri's 5th district

Member, National Co-Chair of president Barack Obama Campaign Committee

(2012)

Chairman, Congressional Black Caucus

(2010–12)

Senior Pastor, St. James United Methodist Church

(1973–2009)

Host, Under the Clock, Kcur Radio

(1999–2004)

Member, President Elect Bill Clinton’s Transitional Team

(1992)

Founder, Harmony in a World of Difference

(1991)

Mayor, City of Kansas

(1991–99)

Councilman, Kansas City, 5th District

(1979–91)

Founder, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Kansas City Chapter

Impact & Accomplishments

Notable contributions during Emanuel Cleaver's congressional service.

Historic East Patrol Division Station Funding

Secured federal funding for the Kansas City East Patrol Division police and crime lab campus to improve public safety infrastructure.

Affordable Housing Advocacy

Supported and helped secure funding for affordable housing initiatives, including the Choice Neighborhoods grant for Kansas City.

Flood Control and Infrastructure

Championed federal investment in Kansas City flood control projects, notably the Turkey Creek and Blue River improvements.

Financial Services Committee Leadership

Served as Chair of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, advancing fair housing and anti-discrimination legislation.

Explore Other Missouri Legislators

Browse other representatives across Missouri. See their bills, votes, and district data.

Reach Missouri Lawmakers

Launch an AI-powered advocacy campaign that delivers clear, personalized letters to Representative Cleaver and every key Missouri legislator—live in under five minutes.

See how 280k+ letters have
reached Congress through Legisletter.