Representative Joe Courtney, Democratic from Connecticut

Joe Courtney

Representative · Connecticut · Democrat

Joe Courtney

House Floor

Recent comments in the House

Mr. Speaker, on September 4, President Trump was asked about the future of the Qatari Air Force One plane, which, after a messy rollout in July, he flew on to Ireland this past weekend and said: ``I haven't made a decision, but it will probably go to the museum. It is scheduled to go to the museum.'' Mr. Speaker, as the ranking member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over the Air Force executive airlift programs, I will remind the House that this aircraft is not the property of any one person, including the President of the United States.
FUTURE OF QATARI AIR FORCE ONE PLANE··Share
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share with the House the sad news of the loss of one of the State of Connecticut's finest public servants, former Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, of Tolland, Connecticut. The news of her sudden passing on August 12 was met with universal sorrow from all corners of her beloved State, from the political leaders on both sides of the aisle and from people of all walks of life with whom she worked, always trying to help, particularly those in need and those whose problems she fixed over and over again.
REMEMBERING NANCY WYMAN··Share
Mr. Chairman, as ranking member of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, I yield myself 2\1/4\ minutes. Mr. Chairman, I rise to endorse many provisions of the Seapower and Projections Forces mark of the 2027 NDAA, which our subcommittee crafted under the able leadership of my good friend, Chairman Trent Kelly. A whole range of much-needed Navy warships and auxiliary platforms are authorized in this bill using multiyear contracting, which will save money for the taxpayer and provide certainty to our shipbuilding industrial base to invest and grow.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2027··Share
Biography
Joe Courtney began his career as a public defender, advocating for fairness in the legal system. Elected to represent Connecticut’s 2nd Congressional District in 2006, he has focused on strengthening national defense, expanding access to affordable health care, and supporting education and workforce development. Courtney played a key role in increasing submarine construction at Electric Boat, securing thousands of local jobs, and serves as the Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces. Known for his practical approach and attention to constituent needs, he works to ensure that Eastern Connecticut’s interests are well represented in Congress.
Education
  • J.D., University of Connecticut School of Law, Hartford, CT
    1978
  • B.A., Tufts University, Boston, MA
    1975
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2007-Present

    Representing Connecticut's 2nd district

  • Attorney, Courtney, Boyan, And Foran, Llc

    1978–2006

  • Attorney, Town of Vernon

    2003–06

  • Member, Connecticut House of Representatives

    1987–94

  • Public Defender

Policy Focus
Education33%
Labor and Employment18%
Health10%
Armed Forces and National Security10%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Joe Courtney's record in Congress.

  • Submarine Manufacturing Funding

    Secured federal funding to expand submarine production at Electric Boat, supporting jobs and the U.S. Navy fleet.

  • Affordable Care Act Support

    Helped pass the Affordable Care Act, expanding healthcare coverage and protections for Connecticut residents.

  • GI Bill Improvements

    Co-authored legislation to enhance GI Bill education benefits for veterans and their families.

  • Student Loan Interest Rate Reduction

    Led efforts to lower federal student loan interest rates, making college more affordable for students.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Armed Services
  • House Committee on Education and Workforce

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