Biography
Robert Julio Garcia, born on December 2, 1977, in Lima, Peru, immigrated to the United States with his mother at the age of five. He was raised in Southern California and became a U.S. citizen in his twenties. Garcia began his political career on the Long Beach City Council, serving from 2009 to 2014, and was elected as the city's youngest and first openly LGBTQ+ mayor in 2014. He served as mayor until 2022, implementing progressive policies on education, economic development, and climate protection. In November 2022, Garcia was elected to represent California's 42nd Congressional District, encompassing Long Beach and Southeast Los Angeles. He is the first openly LGBTQ+ immigrant to serve in the U.S. Congress.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from California State University, Long Beach
- Master of Arts from the University of Southern California
- Doctor of Education in Higher Education from California State University, Long Beach
Political Experience
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Long Beach City Council : Elected in 2009 and reelected in 2010; served as Vice Mayor from 2012 to 2014.
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Mayor of Long Beach : Implemented programs like tuition-free community college and a universal basic income pilot; led the city's nationally recognized COVID-19 response.
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U.S. Representative for California's 42nd Congressional District : Elected in 2022; serves as the Democratic Caucus Leadership Representative and Ranking Member of the National Security, Border, and Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Oversight Committee.
Notable Achievements
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Housing Advocacy: Founded the bipartisan Congressional Yes In My Back Yard Caucus to promote policies increasing housing supply and affordability.
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Legislative Success: In the 118th Congress, two bipartisan bills introduced by Garcia were signed into law, improving government efficiency and accountability.
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Leadership Roles: Elected as the Democratic Caucus Leadership Representative in November 2024, representing newer members in party leadership.
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Environmental Initiatives: As mayor, championed progressive environmental policies, including banning polystyrene and plastic straws, and supported the Green New Deal's vision in Congress.
Garcia continues to advocate for progressive education policies, climate action, and the rights of women, immigrants, and the LGBTQ+ community.
