The truth is that vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of death for our servicemembers. Why are we even debating this? We should be debating amendments that rein in this administration's reckless conduct on this Iran war or its reckless spending in the Middle East. Instead, my colleagues would rather discuss speed cameras. The fact is, this amendment restrains the Secretary's ability to allocate security and law enforcement resources to address traffic safety.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatD+19Stable$359K raised
Gil Cisneros
Representative · California · Democrat
Gil Cisneros
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Mr. Chair, I am going to say, I am pretty baffled by this amendment from my friend and colleague, and I rise in opposition to this amendment. It moves base safety in the wrong direction. Even the Department of Defense opposes this amendment. This amendment would prohibit automated speed enforcement cameras on military installations. To be clear, these cameras aren't about punishing our troops or their families. They exist to keep bases and military families safe.
Mr. Chair, I rise in strong opposition to this amendment. This amendment bans gender-affirming care for servicemembers and their dependents under TRICARE. Recently, the Secretary of Defense just came out in support of gender-affirming care for our male servicemembers by providing the testosterone testing and treatment for those who need it. The DOD Secretary and Republicans have already canceled health coverage for less than 1 percent of the population within the Department of Defense.
Biography
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–PresentRepresented California's 31st congressional district for 1 term.
U.S. Representative
2019–2021Represented California's 39th congressional district for 1 term.
Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness
2021–2023Served 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
2004–2010Worked in management for Frito-Lay until being laid off in 2010.
Policy Focus
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
View details →- House Committee on Small Business
- House Committee on Armed Services
Rep. Gil Cisneros FAQ
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