Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Democratic from Rhode Island

Sheldon Whitehouse

Senator · Rhode Island · Democrat

Sheldon Whitehouse

Biography
Sheldon Whitehouse, a former U.S. Attorney for Rhode Island, was elected as U.S. Senator for Rhode Island in 2006. He is known for his leadership on climate change, government transparency, and health care reform. Whitehouse has authored legislation to address carbon pollution and serves on the Senate Judiciary and Environment and Public Works Committees. He is recognized for his persistent advocacy for environmental accountability and his detailed oversight of Supreme Court ethics. Whitehouse approaches his role with a focus on evidence-based policy and persistent engagement on issues affecting Rhode Islanders.
Education
  • J.D., University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
    1982
  • B.A., Yale University, New Haven, CT
    1978
Professional History

  • U.S. Senator

    2007–Present

    Senator from Rhode Island. 4 terms.

  • Attorney General of Rhode Island

    1999–2003

  • United States Attorney

    1994–98

  • Director, Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation

    1992–94

Policy Focus
Taxation13%
Environmental Protection8%
Health6%
Crime and Law Enforcement5%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Sheldon Whitehouse's record in Congress.

  • Climate Change Advocacy

    Led the Senate's 'Time to Wake Up' speeches, raising awareness and urgency about climate change for over 280 consecutive weeks.

  • Ocean Conservation

    Co-founded the Senate Oceans Caucus and championed bipartisan legislation to protect marine ecosystems and combat ocean pollution.

  • Judicial Ethics Reform

    Introduced the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency Act to increase accountability and transparency in the federal judiciary.

  • Health Care Funding

    Secured increased federal funding for Rhode Island’s community health centers to expand access to primary care services.

Committee Assignments
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  • Senate Committee on Environment and Public WorksRanking Member
  • United States Senate Caucus on International Narcotics ControlChairman
  • Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
  • Senate Committee on the Judiciary
  • Senate Committee on Finance
  • Senate Committee on the Budget

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