Chrissy Houlahan

On November 6, 2018, Chrissy Houlahan was elected as the U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district. She ran as a Democrat and won the seat by defeating Republican candidate Greg McCauley. This election marked a significant political shift as the district had been previously represented by a Republican, Ryan Costello, who decided not to seek re-election. Her victory was part of a wider national movement that saw an increase in female Representatives and a Democratic majority in the House. Houlahan, a former Air Force officer, entrepreneur, and educator, brought a diverse background to Congress, emphasizing issues such as healthcare, education, and holding the Trump administration accountable.

On January 3, 2019, Chrissy Houlahan was sworn in as a member of the 116th United States Congress. As a freshman Congresswoman, she joined a record number of new female members, bringing her expertise as a veteran, businesswoman, and educator to the House of Representatives. During her tenure, she was expected to focus on key issues such as environmental protection, veteran affairs, and economic development while advocating for bipartisan cooperation. Her entrance into Congress was significant as part of the wave of newcomers looking to challenge the status quo and bring fresh perspectives to longstanding issues.

On June 20, 2019, Representative Chrissy Houlahan introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at improving educational opportunities for veterans. The bill, known as the Support for Veterans in Effective Apprenticeships Act, sought to ensure veterans had the resources and support needed to succeed in apprenticeship programs. By co-sponsoring the legislation with Representative Jim Banks, a Republican, Houlahan demonstrated her commitment to bipartisanship and support for veterans, who seek to transition from military to civilian careers. The legislation was part of her broader efforts to strengthen educational and economic opportunities in her district and across the nation.

On March 27, 2020, Chrissy Houlahan voted in favor of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This critical legislation was aimed at addressing the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic by offering financial assistance to individuals, businesses, and hospitals. The CARES Act passed with bipartisan support, reflecting the urgent need for governmental action as the pandemic began affecting the global economy severely. Houlahan's support for the bill highlighted her commitment to providing relief to her constituents and helping stabilize the national economy during this unprecedented crisis.

Representative Chrissy Houlahan was re-elected to the United States House of Representatives on November 3, 2020, representing Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district. She defeated Republican challenger John Emmons in an election year marked by intense national polarization and a high voter turnout. Houlahan's successful re-election campaign focused on her track record during her first term, including her work on healthcare, education, women's rights, and her response to the COVID-19 pandemic. By securing her second term, she continued her commitment to progressive policies and advocacy on behalf of her constituents.

On January 6, 2021, Chrissy Houlahan was present in the United States Capitol when it was stormed by a violent mob seeking to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. The attack disrupted the certification of the Electoral College votes and led to lockdowns within the Capitol complex. Houlahan, along with her colleagues, was forced to shelter in place as the chaotic events unfolded. Following the incident, she spoke out strongly against the insurrection and emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring accountability for those responsible. Her experience that day underscored the seriousness of the challenges faced by American democracy.

On November 15, 2021, Chrissy Houlahan supported and celebrated the signing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act by President Joe Biden. The legislation, widely regarded as a significant achievement for the Biden administration, aimed to address critical infrastructure needs across the United States, such as roads, bridges, public transit, and broadband. Houlahan emphasized the positive impacts of the infrastructure bill on Pennsylvania, highlighting the anticipated job creation and economic growth. Her support for the bill was aligned with her focus on sustainable development and investment in public resources to bolster community resilience and prosperity.

On June 24, 2022, Chrissy Houlahan strongly reacted to the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, a landmark ruling that had protected the right to abortion for nearly half a century. As an advocate for reproductive rights, Houlahan criticized the court's decision, emphasizing the impact it would have on women's healthcare and autonomy. She expressed her commitment to advocating for legislation to protect reproductive rights at the federal level, highlighting this as a crucial issue for her constituents and the nation. Her response was part of a broader outcry from many lawmakers seeking to defend and restore reproductive freedoms.

Chrissy Houlahan was re-elected for a third term in the U.S. House of Representatives during the midterm elections on November 8, 2022. She won against Republican Guy Ciarrocchi, continuing to represent Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district. Her campaign focused on bipartisanship, improving economic conditions, healthcare reforms, and protecting democratic institutions. Houlahan's victory further solidified her role as an influential voice in Congress, advocating for her district's needs while addressing national issues. Her continued presence in Congress reflected the trust her constituents placed in her representation and advocacy.

On February 28, 2023, Representative Chrissy Houlahan co-led a bipartisan effort to introduce legislation aimed at banning the social media app TikTok across the United States due to national security concerns. The proposed ban was based on worries over data privacy and the potential for the Chinese government to access user data. By joining forces with other lawmakers from both parties, Houlahan highlighted the importance of safeguarding American privacy and protecting citizens from foreign influence. This move was part of broader legislative efforts addressing technology and cybersecurity risks associated with foreign-owned applications.