Representative John Garamendi, Democratic from California

John Garamendi

Representative John Garamendi

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

Policy Focus Areas

Transportation and Public Works25%
Armed Forces and National Security20%
Public Lands and Natural Resources7%
Environmental Protection7%

Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from John Garamendi's record in Congress.

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.

Committee Assignments

View details →
  • House Committee on Armed Services
  • House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure

Rep. John Garamendi FAQ

Reach California Lawmakers

Representative Garamendi focuses on Transportation and Public Works, Armed Forces and National Security and Public Lands and Natural Resources. Deliver personalized constituent letters to California's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.

Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.

Start a Campaign