Representative Steve Cohen, Democratic from Tennessee

Steve Cohen

Representative · Tennessee · Democrat

Steve Cohen

Biography
Steve Cohen grew up in Memphis and built his career as a civil rights attorney before entering public service. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Tennessee’s 9th District in 2006, Cohen is known for advancing criminal justice reform, expanding access to voting rights, and protecting civil liberties. He authored the first federal bill to eliminate the sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine, and serves as a senior member of the House Judiciary Committee. Cohen approaches his work with a deep commitment to representing Memphis’s diverse communities and advocating for fairness in the justice system.
Education
  • J.D., University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
    1973
  • B.A., Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
    1971
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2007–Present

    Represented Tennessee's 9th congressional district for 10 terms.

  • Owner and Sole Practitioner, Law Firm

    1978–2006

    Operated his own law practice in Memphis, handling civil and criminal cases.

  • State Senator, Tennessee Senate

    Served in the Tennessee Senate, where he sponsored legislation including funding for AutoZone Park, creation of the Holocaust Commission, and arts funding via specialty license plates.

  • Legal Advisor, Memphis Police Department

    1975–1978

    Served as a legal advisor to the Memphis Police Department.

  • Vice President, Tennessee Constitutional Convention

    1977

    Elected vice president of the 1977 Tennessee Constitutional Convention at age 27.

  • Commissioner, Shelby County Commission

    1978–1980

    Served as a commissioner on the Shelby County Commission in Tennessee.

Policy Focus
Transportation and Public Works18%
International Affairs14%
Crime and Law Enforcement11%
Government Operations and Politics8%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Steve Cohen's record in Congress.

  • Innocence Protection Act

    Sponsored legislation to improve access to DNA testing and legal representation for wrongfully convicted individuals.

  • Medical Marijuana Advocacy

    Consistently introduced bills supporting medical marijuana research and protecting states' rights to set cannabis policy.

  • Civil Rights Restoration

    Championed restoration of voting rights for ex-offenders through the Democracy Restoration Act.

  • Transportation Funding for Memphis

    Secured federal funds for Memphis infrastructure projects, including improvements at Memphis International Airport.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on the Judiciary
  • House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence

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