Representative Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic from New York

Hakeem Jeffries

Representative Hakeem Jeffries

Hakeem Jeffries began his career as a civil rights lawyer, advocating for social justice in Brooklyn communities. Elected to represent New York’s 8th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012, he has focused on criminal justice reform, voting rights, and affordable housing. Jeffries played a leading role in passing the First Step Act, a bipartisan criminal justice reform bill, and currently serves as the House Democratic Leader. His leadership reflects a commitment to practical solutions and amplifying the voices of his diverse Brooklyn and Queens constituents in Congress.

Education

  • J.D., Magna cum laude, New York University Law School, New York, NY
    (1997)
  • M.P.P., Georgetown University, Washington, DC
    (1994)
  • B.A. in Political Science, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY
    (1992)

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(2013-Present)

Representing New York's 8th district

Member, New York Assembly

(2007–13)

Law Clerk, Judge Harold Baer Jr. of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York

Lawyer, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison

Litigation Counsel, Viacom Inc. and Cbs

Policy Focus Areas

Congress28%
Crime and Law Enforcement15%
Commerce10%
International Affairs8%

Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Hakeem Jeffries's record in Congress.

First Step Act

Co-sponsored and helped pass the First Step Act, a major bipartisan criminal justice reform law in 2018.

Copyright Law Modernization

Led passage of the Music Modernization Act to update copyright protections for songwriters and artists.

Affordable Housing Funding

Secured federal funding for affordable housing developments in Brooklyn, supporting low-income residents.

George Floyd Justice in Policing Act

Authored and advanced the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to address police misconduct and accountability.

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