TOP RACE
Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39)
Democrat - California
Running for House
Rep. Mark Takano is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives from California. Born and raised in Riverside, he worked as a public school teacher and community college instructor for over 20 years before entering politics. He first served in local education governance before being elected to Congress in 2012. Since joining Congress, he has become a senior voice on veterans’ policy and civil rights, and he has led major legislation expanding healthcare access and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits and other hazards.
“Every member of Congress is sent to Washington to represent all of their constituents, regardless of their age, race, social standing, or sexual orientation, and I believe that America should be a place where everybody can dream, and nobody is left out.”
- Rep. Mark Takano
POLITICAL CAREER
U.S. House of Representatives (2013–present)
COMMITTEES SERVED ON
House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs
House Committee on Education and Workforce
INTERESTING FACTS
First openly gay person of Asian American descent elected to Congress.
Grandparents and parents were incarcerated in WWII Japanese American internment camps.
Known for leading major bipartisan veterans healthcare legislation (PACT Act).
Strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and civil rights protections.
