Andy Levin

Andy Levin was born on August 10, 1960. He is an American lawyer and politician and a member of the Democratic Party. Known for his progressive political views, Levin served as the U.S. Representative for Michigan's 9th congressional district from 2019 to 2023. He has a background in labor organizing and served as the Assistant Director of Organizing for the AFL-CIO, advocating for workers' rights and environmental issues. His family's political legacy includes his father, Sander Levin, and uncle, Carl Levin, both prominent political figures.

Before entering politics, Andy Levin worked as a union organizer and labor rights advocate. On April 1, 2013, he took on a significant role as the Assistant Director of Organizing for the AFL-CIO, one of the largest federations of unions in the United States. In this position, Levin focused on strengthening the labor movement, advocating for workers' rights, and addressing issues such as income inequality and fair wages. His efforts at the AFL-CIO laid the groundwork for his later political career, emphasizing his commitment to social justice and workers' empowerment.

Andy Levin led the 'No Worker Left Behind' program as its director, starting on March 7, 2015. This pioneering program, initiated in Michigan, aimed to provide job training and educational opportunities to workers displaced by economic changes. Under Levin's leadership, the program helped tens of thousands of Michiganders acquire new skills and transition into high-demand careers. The success of 'No Worker Left Behind' bolstered Levin's reputation as an advocate for workforce development and economic empowerment, and it laid the foundation for his future political endeavors.

On November 6, 2018, Andy Levin was elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing Michigan's 9th congressional district. He succeeded his father, Sander Levin, a long-serving congressman, continuing the family's political legacy. During his tenure, Andy Levin focused on policies related to labor rights, climate change, and healthcare. His victory was part of the larger Democratic wave in the 2018 midterm elections. Levin's campaign emphasized his experience in labor organizing and his commitment to progressive values.

Andy Levin was officially sworn into the 116th United States Congress on January 3, 2019. As a new member of Congress, Levin joined a freshman class notable for its diversity and progressive outlook. Throughout his term, he focused on labor and employment issues, as well as environmental sustainability and clean energy. He served on committees that aligned with his policy priorities, working to advance legislation that addressed economic inequality and climate change. Levin's legislative efforts also included advocating for workers' rights and union strength.

Andy Levin voted in favor of the CARES Act on March 27, 2020. This landmark legislation was a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing $2 trillion in economic relief to Americans. The act included direct payments to individuals, expanded unemployment benefits, and support for small businesses. Levin supported the relief package as essential for protecting workers and families affected by the pandemic's economic fallout. He advocated for further measures to ensure recovery and emphasized the importance of investing in public health and economic resilience.

On January 13, 2021, Andy Levin was among the members of Congress who voted to impeach President Donald Trump for a second time. The impeachment was based on charges of incitement of insurrection, following the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Levin stated that the president's actions were a direct threat to American democracy. He joined his colleagues in emphasizing the need for accountability and the importance of upholding the Constitution. This historic impeachment made Trump the first U.S. president to be impeached twice.

Andy Levin voted for the American Rescue Plan Act, which was signed into law on March 11, 2021, by President Joe Biden. This $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package aimed to accelerate the nation's recovery from the economic and health effects of the pandemic. The legislation provided stimulus checks, extended unemployment benefits, and funding for vaccine distribution. Levin hailed the package as crucial support for working families and a step toward reducing poverty and inequality. He highlighted the importance of continued investment in public health and infrastructure.

On December 14, 2021, Andy Levin introduced the 'Green New Deal for Cities,' a legislative proposal aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainable urban development. The bill sought to provide funding for cities to invest in green infrastructure, renewable energy, and resilience initiatives. Levin worked with climate activists and local leaders to craft the proposal, highlighting the role of cities in achieving national climate goals. The initiative underscored Levin's commitment to environmental issues and his belief in local action as a catalyst for broader change.

In the 2022 Democratic primary, Andy Levin was defeated by his colleague Haley Stevens after redistricting led to both incumbents running for the same seat in Michigan's 11th congressional district. The primary took place on August 2, 2022, and was a high-profile matchup that reflected divisions within the Democratic Party. Despite his loss, Levin continued to be active in public service and advocacy. He expressed gratitude to his supporters and reaffirmed his commitment to the issues he championed, including labor rights and climate change.