Representative Mark Pocan, Democratic from Wisconsin

Mark Pocan

Representative · Wisconsin · Democrat

Mark Pocan

House Floor

Recent comments in the House

Mr. Speaker, I just got back from a fact-finding trip to Cuba a week ago after having visited the country 30 years ago and 3\1/ 2\ years ago, as well. Let me tell you what I found on this trip. The United States' blockade of Cuba is crushing the Cuban people. We are hurting the very people who we profess to care about, and we are not doing so for national security reasons but for political reasons. Here is what I saw. Our blockade is inhumane. Food, medicine, fuel for energy, literally everything you need to live and thrive, is blocked by us. It is not just us.
CUBAN BLOCKADE IS INHUMANE··Share
Biography
Mark Pocan, a former small business owner, was elected to represent Wisconsin’s 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012. He is known for championing workers’ rights, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and protecting civil liberties. Pocan co-chaired the Congressional Progressive Caucus and led efforts to increase federal funding for public education and mental health services. Through his collaborative approach and focus on inclusive policies, he serves his district by advocating for practical solutions that address the needs of diverse communities.
Education
  • B.A. in Journalism, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
    1986
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2013–Present

    Represented Wisconsin's 2nd congressional district for 7 terms.

  • Member, Wisconsin State Assembly (78th District)

    1999–2013

    Served seven terms in the Wisconsin State Assembly, including service on the Joint Finance Committee and a term as its co-chair.

  • Member, Dane County Board of Supervisors

    1991–1996

    Represented Madison’s downtown community on the county board for three terms.

  • Owner, Budget Signs & Specialties

    1986–2013

    Founded and operated a small printing business shortly after graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Policy Focus
Education24%
Health15%
Agriculture and Food7%
Commerce7%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Mark Pocan's record in Congress.

  • Workforce Development Grants

    Secured federal funding for Wisconsin technical colleges to expand workforce training and apprenticeship programs.

  • LGBTQ+ Equality Advocacy

    Co-introduced the Equality Act to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

  • Student Loan Reform

    Championed legislation to allow refinancing of federal student loans at lower interest rates.

  • Small Business Support During COVID-19

    Helped secure Paycheck Protection Program loans for Wisconsin small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Appropriations
  • House Committee on Foreign Affairs

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