John B. Larson

John Barry Larson was born on July 22, 1948, in Hartford, Connecticut. He was raised in East Hartford, Connecticut. Larson attended public schools, graduating from East Hartford High School, before going on to earn a Bachelor of Arts from Central Connecticut State University in 1971. His early life in Connecticut would later influence his political career as he has consistently represented and advocated for his community throughout his time in public office.

John B. Larson was elected to the United States House of Representatives on November 3, 1998, representing Connecticut's 1st congressional district. As a Democrat, Larson succeeded Barbara Kennelly and quickly became an influential member of Congress. He has been reelected numerous times due to his strong connections with his constituents and his ability to address key issues such as jobs, healthcare, and social security.

In 2003, John B. Larson played a pivotal role in introducing the Energy Independence and Security Act, aimed at achieving a significant reduction in the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting renewable energy sources. The act also addressed issues of climate change and aimed to strengthen energy security in the United States. Larson's commitment to environmental issues has been a hallmark of his legislative career, reflecting his dedication to fostering sustainable development and addressing global warming.

On January 3, 2009, John B. Larson became the Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, a position he held until 2013. As chair, Larson was the fourth-ranking Democrat in the House of Representatives, following the Speaker, Majority Leader, and Majority Whip. His role was crucial in organizing Democratic messaging and strategy during the first term of President Barack Obama. Larson's leadership was instrumental during significant legislative efforts, such as the passage of the Affordable Care Act.

On March 23, 2010, one of the most significant legislative achievements during John B. Larson's time in office was the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As a key supporter, Larson played a crucial role in advocating for the policy, which aimed to expand healthcare coverage to millions of uninsured Americans. The ACA included provisions to prevent insurance companies from denying coverage due to pre-existing conditions, expand Medicaid, and establish health insurance marketplaces, fundamentally transforming the American healthcare system.

John B. Larson was a strong supporter of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, enacted to combat the Great Recession's effects on the American economy. On May 25, 2011, he highlighted the act's impacts, including saving or creating millions of jobs, providing tax cuts to working families, and initiating investments in critical infrastructure, education, healthcare, and renewable energy. Larson emphasized these initiatives' role in stabilizing the economy and preparing it for future growth.

On July 22, 2015, John B. Larson introduced the Social Security 2100 Act, aimed at strengthening and expanding Social Security benefits for current and future generations. This act proposed enhancing benefits, adjusting the cost-of-living formula, and raising the income cap on taxable wages to ensure the program's solvency. Larson's advocacy for Social Security mirrors his dedication to protecting and supporting American seniors and vulnerable populations.

On December 17, 2016, John B. Larson was named the Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee. In this role, Larson has focused on ensuring the solvency of Social Security, advocating for policies that prevent cuts to essential benefits, and exploring means to improve the system's efficiency and effectiveness. His leadership aims to preserve Social Security as a dependable resource for all Americans.

In December 2020, John B. Larson was actively involved in the negotiations for the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act. On December 20, he highlighted the importance of providing direct relief to American families, support for small businesses, resources for vaccine distribution, and unemployment benefits. Larson stressed the need for a bipartisan approach to deliver timely assistance to address the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

On September 28, 2023, John B. Larson reintroduced the Social Security 2100 Act in an ongoing effort to strengthen the Social Security program. Recognizing the continued challenges and public concerns surrounding Social Security, the updated proposal seeks to improve benefit adequacy and ensure long-term funding for the program. Larson's persistent focus on Social Security reflects his commitment to protecting retirees and addressing income inequality.