Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson has represented Florida’s 24th Congressional District since 2011. Her career in public service spans several decades, characterized by a focus on education, social justice, and economic development.
Career Path to Congress
Early Life and Education: Born on November 5, 1942, in Miami, Florida, Frederica Smith Wilson holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Fisk University and a Master of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Miami.
Professional Background: Wilson began her career as a teacher and later served as a principal, indicating a strong commitment to education and community development.
Florida State Legislature: Elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1998, Wilson served until 2002 and then was elected to the Florida Senate from 2002 to 2010. During her time in the legislature, she concentrated on education reform and social justice initiatives.
U.S. House of Representatives: In 2010, Wilson was elected to represent Florida’s 17th Congressional District, which was later redistricted to the 24th District. She has been re-elected consistently, indicating significant support from her constituents.
Sponsored Legislation
During her tenure in Congress, Representative Wilson has sponsored and co-sponsored numerous bills that emphasize education, labor, and social justice. She has also advocated for the inclusion of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in national defense research initiatives.
Votes and Stances on Major Social Issues
Education: With her background in teaching, Wilson has advocated for educational initiatives that benefit underserved communities, supporting increased funding for public schools and programs that address educational disparities.
Civil Rights: Wilson supports legislation aimed at protecting and expanding civil rights, advocating for measures that address systemic inequalities and promote social justice.
Healthcare: She endorses the Affordable Care Act and initiatives to expand healthcare access, emphasizing the importance of affordable healthcare for all citizens.
Votes and Stances on Major Economic Issues
Minimum Wage: Wilson advocates for raising the federal minimum wage, citing its role in reducing poverty and promoting economic equity.
Job Creation: She supports initiatives focused on job creation, particularly in underserved communities, and has worked to secure federal funding for economic development projects.
Votes and Stances on National Defense, NDAA, and DARPA
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): Congresswoman Wilson has voted in favor of the NDAA, emphasizing national security and the inclusion of diverse institutions in defense research.
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA): While specific votes on DARPA funding are not detailed, her support for the NDAA and advocacy for HBCUs in defense research indicate a favorable stance toward funding advanced research projects that enhance national security.
Demographics of Florida’s 24th Congressional District
Florida’s 24th Congressional District is noted for its ethnic and cultural diversity, encompassing parts of northwest Miami-Dade and southern Broward counties. As of 2022, the district had a population of approximately 780,118 people, with a median age of 39 years and a median household income of $56,804.
Conclusion
In summary, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson’s career in public service demonstrates a focus on education, social justice, and economic development. Her legislative efforts and policy positions reflect her aim to address the needs and concerns of her constituents in Florida’s 24th Congressional District.