Representative Nydia Velázquez, Democratic from New York

Nydia Velázquez

Representative · New York · Democrat

Nydia Velázquez

Biography
Nydia Velázquez began her career as a community organizer, advocating for tenants and small business owners in New York City. Elected in 1992, she represents New York’s 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. She champions affordable housing, small business development, and Puerto Rican civil rights. Velázquez served as the first Latina Chair of the House Small Business Committee and authored landmark legislation supporting disaster relief for Puerto Rico. She is known for her hands-on approach and commitment to amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities in her district.
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    1993-Present

    Representing New York's 7th district

  • Director, Department of Puerto Rican Community Affairs in the United States

    1989–92

  • National Director, Migration Division Office, Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources

    1986–89

  • Member, New York City Council

    1984–86

  • Special Assistant, Congressman Ed Towns

    1983

  • Adjunct Professor, Hunter College of the City University of New York

    1981–83

  • Faculty Member, University of Puerto Rico

    1976–81

Policy Focus
Commerce24%
Health13%
Finance and Financial Sector9%
Education8%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Nydia Velázquez's record in Congress.

  • Small Business Advocacy

    First Puerto Rican woman to chair the House Small Business Committee, advancing support for minority and women entrepreneurs.

  • Hurricane Maria Relief

    Secured federal disaster aid and oversight for Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria’s devastation in 2017.

  • Public Housing Funding

    Helped secure increased federal funding for New York City public housing repairs and improvements.

  • DREAM Act Support

    Co-sponsored and advocated for the DREAM Act to provide legal status to undocumented immigrant youth.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Small BusinessRanking Member
  • House Committee on Financial Services

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