Gilbert Cisneros

Gilbert Ray Cisneros Jr. is a Democratic politician and U.S. Navy veteran representing California's 31st Congressional District. He was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018, serving the 39th District from 2019 to 2021. Born and raised in Southern California, Cisneros enlisted in the Navy in 1989 and earned a commission as a supply officer through an ROTC scholarship. He holds a bachelor's degree in political science from George Washington University, an MBA from Regis University, and a master's degree in urban education policy from Brown University. Before entering politics, he worked as a logistics manager for Frito-Lay. In 2010, Cisneros and his wife, Jacki, became significant philanthropic figures after winning a $266 million Mega Millions jackpot. They founded the Gilbert & Jacki Cisneros Foundation, which focuses on expanding educational opportunities for Latino students and supporting veterans. His philanthropic efforts include the creation of the Cisneros Hispanic Leadership Institute and the Generation First Degree program in Pico Rivera. He also served on the advisory board of Michelle Obama's Reach Higher Initiative for college access. Following his initial term in Congress, Cisneros was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2021 to serve as the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. In this role, he managed military readiness, health affairs, and personnel requirements for the Department of Defense. In 2024, he successfully ran for California's 31st Congressional District to succeed the retiring Representative Grace Napolitano. In his current term, he serves on the House Armed Services and House Committee on Small Business.

Cisneros supports the protection and expansion of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), advocating for a public option to lower costs and increase competition. He supports raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, ensuring equal pay for women, and strengthening the social safety net for seniors and working families. On immigration, he is a vocal advocate for the DREAM Act and DACA recipients, supporting comprehensive reform that includes a pathway to citizenship and humane border security. He holds a high rating from environmental advocacy groups, supporting a transition to renewable energy sources and aggressive federal action to combat climate change. Additionally, he is a strong proponent of reproductive rights, supporting federal legislation to codify abortion access and ensure universal access to contraception.