Representative Nikki Budzinski, Democratic from Illinois

Nikki Budzinski

Representative · Illinois · Democrat

Nikki Budzinski

Biography
Nikki Budzinski began her career advocating for workers’ rights as a labor union leader before entering public service. Elected in 2022, she represents Illinois’s 13th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Budzinski focuses on strengthening the middle class, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and investing in infrastructure. She has introduced legislation to lower prescription drug costs and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture. Budzinski approaches her work by engaging directly with constituents and prioritizing practical solutions to improve daily life in her district.
Education
  • B.A. in History and Political Science, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL
    1999
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2023-Present

    Representing Illinois's 13th district

  • Chief of Staff, U.S. Office of Management and Budget

    2021

  • President, Budzinski & Partners, Llc

    2020–21

  • Senior Advisor, Governor J.b. Pritzker

    2019–20

  • Executive Director, Pritzker/stratton Transition Committee

    2018–19

  • Labor Outreach Director, Hillary for America

    2015–16

  • Associate Director of Legislative and Political Action, United Food and Commercial Workers Union

    2008–15

  • Iowa Political Director, Chris Dodd Presidential Campaign

    2007–08

  • Political Representative, International Association of Fire Fighters

    2005–08

Policy Focus
Armed Forces and National Security29%
Agriculture and Food21%
Taxation14%
Government Operations and Politics11%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Nikki Budzinski's record in Congress.

  • Rural Health Care Funding

    Secured federal funding to support rural hospitals and improve healthcare access in Central and Southern Illinois.

  • Farm Bill Advocacy

    Advocated for robust crop insurance and support programs for Illinois farmers in the 2023 Farm Bill negotiations.

  • Workforce Development

    Helped obtain federal grants for job training programs to boost local employment opportunities in her district.

  • Veterans' Services Expansion

    Championed increased funding for veterans’ healthcare and support services in Illinois communities.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Veterans' Affairs
  • House Committee on Agriculture

Rep. Nikki Budzinski FAQ

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