Biography
Pablo José Hernández Rivera, born on May 11, 1991, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the Resident Commissioner representing Puerto Rico in the U.S. Congress. He is the grandson of former Governor Rafael Hernández Colón and Lila Mayoral Wirshing. Hernández Rivera began his political involvement at the age of 14, volunteering for the San Juan municipal committee of the Popular Democratic Party .
Education
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Harvard University: Bachelor of Arts in Government, 2013
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Stanford Law School: Juris Doctor, 2017
Political Experience
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Early Career:
- Served as absentee voting coordinator for the PPD in 2012.
- Worked in the Puerto Rico Governor’s Office, focusing on policy and administrative priorities.
- Clerked for Judge Gustavo Gelpí in Puerto Rico’s Federal District Court.
- Gained experience in Washington, D.C., as a lawyer and public policy consultant.
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Resident Commissioner:
- Elected as Resident Commissioner in the 2024 elections, receiving the highest number of votes among all officials.
- Sworn into office on January 3, 2025.
- Focuses on economic development, equity in federal programs, and infrastructure rebuilding for Puerto Rico.
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Party Leadership:
- Assumed the presidency of the Popular Democratic Party on February 2, 2025, following the resignation of Jesús Manuel Ortiz.
Notable Achievements
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Legislative Initiatives:
- Introduced the Puerto Rico Low-Income Housing Support Act alongside Congressman Ritchie Torres to expand access to affordable housing for low-income families in Puerto Rico.
- Advocated for the expansion of the Child Tax Credit for Puerto Rican families through the Child Tax Credit Relief for Puerto Rican Families Act.
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Community Engagement:
- Inaugurated a district office in Caguas to provide direct services to constituents, emphasizing accessibility and support on federal matters.
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Publications:
- Authored "Compatriotas: Exilio y retorno de Luis Muñoz Marín," a biography focusing on the years 1968–1972.
- Co-authored "A toda vela: Memorias de Rafael Hernández Colón ."
Hernández Rivera continues to advocate for Puerto Rico's inclusion in federal programs, economic opportunities, and sustainable development.
