Carlos "Johnny" Méndez Núñez, born on June 30, 1960, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, is a lawyer and politician affiliated with the Partido Nuevo Progresista *, which supports statehood for Puerto Rico and aligns with the U.S. Republican Party. He represents *District 36 in the Puerto Rico House of Representatives, covering the municipalities of Río Grande, Luquillo, Fajardo, Ceiba, Vieques, and Culebra. First elected in 2004, he has served continuously, winning re-election in 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020, and November 2024. Notable achievements include serving as Speaker of the House from 2017-2021 and being selected again as Speaker post-2024, making him only the 12th legislator to hold the position twice. He has also held roles as Majority Leader , Minority Leader, PNP Spokesperson , and chairs the Government Committee. Prior to politics, he held municipal administration positions and served as Executive Director of the Northeast Consortium Mayors' Board .

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Studied law; resides in Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
• Early Political Experience: Served in various municipal administration roles before 1997; appointed Executive Director of the Northeast Consortium Mayors' Board until 2004.
• House of Representatives:
  • Elected 2004: President of Employment and Labor Relations Commission; Vice President of Law, Municipal Affairs commissions.
  • 2008 reelection: President of Government Commission.
  • 2011: Elected Majority Leader and President of Calendar and Special Debate Rules Commission.
  • 2013-2016: Alternate Spokesperson for PNP delegation.
  • 2017-2021: Speaker of the House.
  • 2021-2024: PNP Spokesperson .
  • 2024 reelection: Re-elected as Speaker.
• Other Positions and Affiliations: Member of the National Conference of State Legislatures and National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators; endorsed Jenniffer González in 2024 primaries.