Ami Bera

Ami Bera is a Democratic U.S. Representative currently representing California's 6th congressional district, a position he has held since 2023; he previously represented the 7th district from 2013 to 2023. Born and raised in California as the son of Indian immigrants, Bera earned both his Bachelor of Science and his Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of California, Irvine. Before entering politics, he spent over 20 years in the medical field, serving as a physician, the Chief Medical Officer for Sacramento County, and a clinical professor and associate dean at the University of California, Davis School of Medicine. Bera was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012 after defeating incumbent Dan Lungren. Since joining Congress, he has become a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. He is notable for being the longest-serving Indian American currently in Congress and has frequently focused on issues related to public health, global security, and veterans' affairs during his tenure.

Bera’s policy positions are primarily focused on healthcare, environmental protection, and international diplomacy. As a physician, he is a strong advocate for the Affordable Care Act and has consistently voted to protect Medicare and Social Security, viewing them as essential for a dignified retirement. He is a supporter of reproductive rights and has been recognized for his work in advancing women's healthcare. On the economy, Bera emphasizes the growth of the middle class, supporting small businesses, and investing in job training for clean energy sectors. His stance on immigration involves supporting comprehensive reform that includes strengthening border security while providing a pathway for undocumented individuals and protecting 'Dreamers.' Regarding the environment, he prioritizes science-based leadership to address climate change, improve wildfire resilience, and protect natural landmarks like Lake Tahoe. In foreign policy, Bera advocates for a strategy of 'principled diplomacy,' emphasizing the importance of global health security and maintaining strong alliances, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region where he has served as a ranking member on key subcommittees.