Barbara Jean Lee, a distinguished American politician and accomplished social worker, was born Barbara Jean Tutt on a sunny summer day, July 16, 1946. Since 1998, she has been proudly serving the people of California as a U.S. representative, diligently working to make a positive impact in the lives of her constituents.
As a dedicated public servant, Lee represents California's 12th congressional district, a diverse and vibrant region based in the city of Oakland and encompassing the majority of Alameda County's northern territory.
A native Texan, Barbara Lee has built a distinguished career, marked by a plethora of esteemed educational credentials. She has earned degrees from the prestigious Mills College, situated in the heart of Oakland, California, as well as the renowned University of California, Berkeley.
Her professional journey commenced with a pivotal role in the presidential campaign of the trailblazing Shirley Chisholm, a groundbreaking African American politician who shattered glass ceilings in the world of politics.
Subsequently, Lee's trajectory took a significant turn when she became entwined with the Black Panther Party, a radical political organization that sought to address systemic injustices and promote social change.
In the subsequent years, Lee's expertise and leadership skills were honed through her tenure as chief of staff for U.S. Representative Ron Dellums, a prominent figure in California politics.
Notably, Lee's legislative prowess was further showcased through her impressive tenure in the California State Assembly, where she served from 1990 to 1996, and subsequently in the California State Senate from 1996 to 1998.
Barbara Lee's political career took a significant turn in 1998 when she was elected to the House of Representatives in a special election, succeeding Ron Dellums. As a dedicated progressive, she went on to hold various leadership positions within the Democratic party, including chairing the Congressional Progressive Caucus from 2005 to 2009, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the party's progressive agenda.
Lee's commitment to social justice and equality also led her to take on leadership roles within the Congressional Black Caucus, serving as its chair from 2009 to 2011. Her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within the party was further exemplified through her membership in the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus, which she co-founded and served as its vice chair.
In addition to her work on social justice issues, Lee has also been a vocal advocate for cannabis reform, co-chairing the Congressional Cannabis Caucus to promote the legalization and regulation of cannabis. Her leadership and expertise have also been recognized through her appointment as a co-chair of the House Democratic Steering Committee, where she plays a key role in shaping the party's legislative agenda.
Lee has played a pivotal and significant role in the antiwar movement, characterized by her outspoken and vocal criticism of the Iraq War, which garnered widespread attention and respect. Moreover, she holds the distinction of being the only member of Congress to vote against the authorization of use of force in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, a bold and courageous stance that reflects her commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and protecting the rights of citizens.
Notably, Lee is currently a candidate for the United States Senate in the 2024 election, seeking to succeed the late Senator Dianne Feinstein, a respected and accomplished public servant who has left a lasting legacy in the Senate. Lee's candidacy is marked by her dedication to public service, her commitment to the values of democracy, and her promise to continue the important work of Senator Feinstein in representing the interests of the people of California.
