5 Questions With Congressman Lieu

5 Questions With...

Congressman Ted Lieu

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 United States Air Force. I served on active duty and currently serve as a Colonel in the Reserves. I wanted to continue serving my country and 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

What inspired you to run for public office?

With…” 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 talk about it. Making sure Americans know that their Representatives are working for them and are responsive to their needs is key.

What is the last thing you read for fun (not a briefing memo)?

The Year’s Best Science Fiction: Thirty-Fifth Annual Collection

What are your thoughts on autonomous vehicles?

As a recovering Computer Science major, I recognize the power of innovation—especially when it comes to technological advancements that can improve the lives of many.

Autonomous vehicles have the potential to improve the lives of people with disabilities, including veterans, by providing new transportation opportunities. That said, we can’t ignore AV-related cybersecurity issues. I also support environmentally friendly efforts to innovate in the transportation sector, and I look forward to seeing how autonomous vehicles can safely expand mobility.

5. What does mobility mean to you?

Mobility means having the opportunity and freedom to live an independent life. We must work on creating a world where everyone can achieve their goals regardless of physical limitations.

FAST FACTS

Democrat Represents California’s 33rd Congressional District Committees: Judiciary, Foreign Affairs Caucuses: ALS, Smart Transportation, Cystic Fibrosis, Parkinson’s Multiple Sclerosis https://lieu.house.gov