5 Questions With...
Congressman Ted Lieu By Amy Schoppman NMEDA DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
Ted Lieu is the third-term U.S. Representative for California’s 33rd congressional district. An alumnus of Stanford and Georgetown Universities, Congressman Lieu—recognizing the opportunities America had given to his Taiwanese immigrant family—joined the US Air Force and served in the JAG corps. He subsequently receivied various recognitions for his domestic and international activities as a military prosecutor and advisor to Commanders. Promoted to Air Force Reserves Colonel in 2015, the Congressman is one of only four computer science majors currently serving in Congress and is frequently sought out for his insight on technology-related issues (including innovation, cybersecurity, and consumer safety in relation to technologically advanced vehicles). Elected president of the 2015 freshman class by his Democratic colleagues, Representative Lieu sponsored seven legislative proposals—including a bill to help homeless veterans and a bill to combat foreign propaganda and misinformation—that were signed into law during his first term. Read on to learn more about California Congressman Ted Lieu in this edition of “5 Questions With…”
1. What inspired you to run for public office? When I was three years old, my family immigrated to the United States. My parents went from selling gifts at flea markets to owning numerous gift stores around our hometown of Cleveland. Recognizing the opportunities the United States gave my family, I wanted to give back to my country, so I joined the
channel my passions for protecting the environment; advocating for veterans; fighting for civil liberties; and preserving high ethical standards in government. For that reason, I decided to run for local office in Torrance, California and eventually for Congress. It has been an honor to serve the residents of California’s 33rd district and represent them in Washington.
2. What skill(s) do you utilize most frequently on Capitol Hill? Good communications skills are critical on the Hill. As a CoChair of the House Policy and Communications Committee, I work on the Democratic Leadership team to craft messaging around important legislation and initiatives in our caucus. The work of legislating is deeply important, but so is how you
United States Air Force. I served on
talk about it. Making sure Americans
active duty and currently serve as
know that their Representatives are
a Colonel in the Reserves. I wanted
working for them and are responsive
to continue serving my country and
to their needs is key.
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NMEDA Circuit Breaker
