Sheila Jackson Lee

Democrat Representative of Texas's 18th district

  • Representative

    Texas, district 18

    January 3, 2023 - January 3, 2025

202-225-3816

@JacksonLeeTX18

jacksonlee.house.gov

Send PostcardSend Postcard

15

Congresses Served

15

House Terms

January 12, 1950 (75 years old)

Birthday

  • Has served as the U.S. representative for a Texas congressional district since 1995, which includes most of central Houston.
  • Served as an at-large member of the Houston City Council before being elected to the House.
  • Co-dean of Texas’s congressional delegation.
  • Graduated from Yale University and the University of Virginia School of Law.
  • Appointed as a municipal judge in Houston before serving on the city council.
  • Introduced progressive policies during her congressional tenure, including the Essential Transportation Worker Identification Credential Assessment Act and the Sabika Sheikh Firearm Licensing and Registration Act.
  • Stepped down from chair positions due to a lawsuit alleging retaliation against a staffer.
  • Ran for Houston mayor in 2023 but lost in a runoff election.
  • Has a history of high staff turnover and has been reported to have an abrasive management style.
  • Serves on several committees and is a member of numerous caucuses, including the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
  • Advocates for foreign policy that supports human rights and better relations with certain nations.
  • Active on immigration issues, opposes a guest worker program, and supports increasing opportunities for legalization.
  • Supports LGBT rights and racial equality, including voting for the Equality Act and suggesting inclusive naming for hurricanes.
  • Has objected to electoral college vote counts in past presidential elections.
  • Known for making controversial statements and gaffes.
  • Married with two children, a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and a cancer survivor.
  • Received the Hilal-i-Pakistan award for services to Pakistan.