Summer Lee

Democrat Representative of Pennsylvania's 12th district

Representative
Pennsylvania, district 12
January 3, 2023 - January 3, 2025

202-225-2135

summerlee.house.gov

Congresses Served

House Terms

November 26, 1987 (36 years old)

Birthday

Became the U.S. representative for a congressional district in 2023.
Served in the state House of Representatives before joining Congress.
Was the first black woman to represent Southwestern Pennsylvania in the state legislature.
Won a primary election by a narrow margin and became the first black woman from her state in the House of Representatives.
Raised in North Braddock, Pennsylvania, and attended local high school.
Holds a degree from Pennsylvania State University and a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law.
Campaigned for Bernie Sanders in the 2016 Democratic primaries.
Defeated an incumbent representative in the Democratic primary for the state House through grassroots campaigning.
Has served on the Education, Health, and Judiciary committees.
Announced candidacy for Congress after the retirement of the incumbent representative and won the primary and general elections.
Ran for reelection to the state House simultaneously with her congressional campaign but resigned to serve in Congress.
Faced a primary challenge in the next election cycle but secured endorsements from prominent Democrats.
Supports abortion rights and has called for the preservation of FDA approval for specific treatments.
Criticized a Supreme Court decision on affirmative action in college admissions.
Voted against the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, citing concerns over economic catastrophe.
Advocated for gun control and criticized the proliferation of guns in America.
Called for accountability from railroads and supported stricter federal rail safety regulations.
Voted against resolutions condemning Iran and supporting Israel, expressing concern over issues related to Israel and Palestine.
Was barred from entering Russia along with other members of Congress.
Supported TikTok amidst discussions of a ban in the United States.
Member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Congressional Caucus for the Equal Rights Amendment (vice chair), and Congressional Progressive Caucus.
Lives in Swissvale, Pennsylvania.