John Garamendi

Years in Office

16

Bills Sponsored

237

Bills Co-Sponsored

3588

Committees

2

John Garamendi Biography

John Garamendi, a former rancher and insurance commissioner, has represented California’s 8th congressional district in the U.S. House since 2009. He focuses on strengthening infrastructure, advancing environmental protections, and supporting affordable healthcare. Garamendi authored legislation to enhance levee safety and has served as a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, shaping national defense policy. He approaches public service with a pragmatic commitment to the needs and resilience of his diverse Northern California district.

Education

M.B.A., Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
(1974)
B.A. in Business, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
(1966)

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(2009-Present)

Representing California's 8th district

Lieutenant Governor of California

(2007–09)

Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of the Interior

(1995–98)

California Insurance Commissioner

(1991–94)

and 2002–06

Member, California Senate

(1976–90)

Member, California Assembly

(1974–76)

Peace Corps Volunteer

(1966–68)

Small Business Owner

Impact & Accomplishments

Notable contributions during John Garamendi's congressional service.

Water Infrastructure Funding

Secured federal funding for California water infrastructure projects, including levee improvements and drought resilience initiatives.

Wildfire Disaster Assistance

Helped pass legislation to increase federal disaster aid for California wildfire victims and improve wildfire response capabilities.

Maritime Administration Reform

Authored provisions to strengthen the U.S. Merchant Marine and support domestic shipbuilding in the National Defense Authorization Act.

Public Lands Protection

Co-sponsored bills to expand and protect public lands in Northern California, including the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument.

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