Representative Gil Cisneros, Democratic from California

Gil Cisneros

Representative Gil Cisneros

Gil Cisneros, a former Navy officer and philanthropist, was elected to represent California’s 39th Congressional District in 2018. In Congress, he prioritized expanding access to health care, supporting veterans, and strengthening public education. Cisneros served on the House Armed Services and Veterans’ Affairs Committees, where he advocated for increased mental health resources for service members and helped secure funding for local schools. Through pragmatic problem-solving and community outreach, he worked to address the specific needs of his diverse district.

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(2025–Present)

Represented California's 31st congressional district for 1 term.

U.S. Representative

(2019–2021)

Represented California's 39th congressional district for 1 term.

Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

(2021–2023)

Served in the Biden administration after Senate confirmation, overseeing personnel and readiness matters for the Department of Defense.

Philanthropist and Co-founder, Gilbert and Jacki Cisneros Foundation

(2010–)

Co-founded a foundation with an initial $20 million investment to support mentorship and educational opportunities, particularly for Latino students.

Co-founder, Generation First Degree Pico Rivera

Helped establish an initiative aimed at ensuring every Latino household in Pico Rivera has at least one college graduate.

Member, Advisory Committee on the Arts, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

(2014–)

Appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the Kennedy Center’s Advisory Committee on the Arts.

Shipping and Manufacturing Manager, Frito-Lay

(2004–2010)

Worked in management for Frito-Lay until being laid off in 2010.

Policy Focus Areas

Commerce50%
Armed Forces and National Security25%

Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Gil Cisneros's record in Congress.

Veterans Affairs Funding

Secured increased funding for VA medical facilities and services in Southern California.

PFAS Contamination Response

Introduced legislation to address PFAS chemical contamination in drinking water near military bases.

College Affordability

Co-sponsored the College Affordability Act to expand Pell Grants and lower student loan costs.

Small Business COVID-19 Relief

Supported legislation providing emergency loans and grants to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Committee Assignments

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  • House Committee on Small Business
  • House Committee on Armed Services

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