Representative Lateefah Simon, Democratic from California

Lateefah Simon

Representative · California · Democrat

Lateefah Simon

Biography
Lateefah Simon began her career as a civil rights advocate, leading initiatives to improve opportunities for young people and communities of color in California. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for California’s 12th district in 2024, she prioritizes transit equity, criminal justice reform, and affordable housing. Simon has served on regional transportation boards, shaping funding for Bay Area transit improvements, and has sponsored legislation aimed at reducing barriers to reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals. She brings a collaborative and community-centered approach to representing her district, emphasizing practical solutions and accessibility in public service.
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2025–Present

    Represented California's 12th congressional district for 1 term.

  • Director, District 7, Bay Area Rapid Transit Board of Directors

    2016–2025

    Elected to represent BART's seventh district and later reinstated to the board after a brief residency-related dispute.

  • President, Bay Area Rapid Transit Board of Directors

    2020

    Chosen by fellow directors to serve as president of the BART board.

  • Trustee, California State University Board of Trustees

    Served on the governing board overseeing the California State University system.

  • President, Akonadi Foundation

    Led an Oakland-based foundation focused on racial justice initiatives.

  • Leader, Back on Track Program, San Francisco District Attorney’s Office

    Led creation of the Back on Track diversion program for young adults charged with low-level felony drug sales during Kamala Harris’s tenure as San Francisco District Attorney.

Policy Focus
Law50%
Commerce50%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Lateefah Simon's record in Congress.

  • BART Board Leadership

    Elected as the first Black woman to represent District 7 on the BART Board, advocating for equitable transit access.

  • Reentry Services Expansion

    Led the creation of programs supporting formerly incarcerated individuals’ reentry through the Center for Young Women's Development.

  • MacArthur Fellowship

    Awarded the MacArthur 'Genius' Grant in 2003 for her innovative work with young women affected by violence and incarceration.

  • Police-Free Transit Advocacy

    Championed efforts to reform BART’s policing policies, including initiatives to reduce armed police presence on transit.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Small Business
  • House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

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