Representative Sylvia Garcia, Democratic from Texas

Sylvia Garcia

Representative · Texas · Democrat

Sylvia Garcia

Biography
Sylvia Garcia began her career as a social worker and city controller, grounding her public service in advocating for working families and local communities. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Texas’s 29th district in 2018, she prioritizes immigration reform, access to affordable healthcare, and economic opportunity for her constituents. Garcia has introduced legislation to protect immigrant rights and serves on the House Judiciary and Financial Services Committees, shaping national policy on civil liberties and financial regulation. She is recognized for her direct, community-focused approach, ensuring the voices of Houston-area residents are represented in Congress.
Education
  • J.D., Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Houston, TX
    1978
  • B.S. in Social Work, Texas Women’s University, Denton, TX
    1972
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2019–Present

    Represented Texas's 29th congressional district for 4 terms.

  • State Senator, Texas 6th District

    2013–2018

    Elected in a 2013 special election and served in the Texas Senate until resigning after her election to the U.S. House.

  • Commissioner, Harris County Commissioners Court

    2003–2010

    Elected in 2002 as the first woman and first Latina to serve on the Harris County Commissioners Court in her own right.

  • City Controller, Houston

    1998–2002

    Elected Houston city controller in 1998, serving as the city’s chief financial officer.

  • Presiding Judge, Houston Municipal Court System

    Appointed in the early 1980s by Mayor Kathryn Whitmire and served for five terms under two mayors.

Policy Focus
Finance and Financial Sector17%
Armed Forces and National Security9%
Crime and Law Enforcement9%
Immigration9%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Sylvia Garcia's record in Congress.

  • Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization

    Co-sponsored and advocated for the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act to strengthen protections for survivors.

  • COVID-19 Relief Funding

    Secured federal COVID-19 relief funding for Houston-area hospitals, schools, and small businesses during the pandemic.

  • Affordable Housing Support

    Helped obtain federal grants for affordable housing initiatives in Houston to address homelessness and housing insecurity.

  • Protecting Immigrant Rights

    Introduced legislation to protect the rights of immigrant detainees and improve conditions in immigration detention centers.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Ethics
  • House Committee on Financial Services

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