Congresswoman Nikema Williams has represented Georgia’s 5th Congressional District since 2021, succeeding the late John Lewis. Her career includes significant roles in political activism and public service, demonstrating her commitment to civil rights and community advocacy.
Career Path to Congress
Early Life and Education: Born on July 30, 1978, in Columbus, Georgia, Nikema Williams attended Talladega College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology.
Political Activism: Williams has been actively involved in political organizing and advocacy, focusing especially on civil rights and voter engagement. She served as the Vice President of Public Policy for Planned Parenthood Southeast, where she advocated for reproductive rights and healthcare access.
Georgia State Senate: In 2017, Williams was elected to the Georgia State Senate, representing District 39. During her time in the Senate, she concentrated on issues such as voting rights, healthcare, and economic equity.
U.S. House of Representatives: Following the passing of Congressman John Lewis in 2020, Williams was selected as the Democratic nominee for Georgia’s 5th Congressional District. She won the general election and assumed office in January 2021.
Sponsored Legislation
As a member of Congress, Williams has sponsored and co-sponsored various pieces of legislation dedicated to civil rights, economic justice, and healthcare. Notably, she introduced the John Lewis Civil Rights Fellowship Act to promote her predecessor’s legacy on a global scale.
Votes and Stances on Major Social Issues
- Abortion: With her background at Planned Parenthood, she champions reproductive freedom and opposes efforts to restrict access to abortion and contraceptive services.
- LGBTQ: Williams supports equality for LGBTQ+ individuals and endorses policies that protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Votes and Stances on Major Economic Issues
- Economic Philosophy: She advocates for policies that address income inequality, including raising the minimum wage and supporting small businesses, particularly those owned by minorities and women.
- Infrastructure Spending: Williams supports significant federal investment in infrastructure to create jobs and improve transportation, housing, and technological access in her district.
Votes and Stances on National Defense, NDAA, and DARPA
- National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): In June 2024, Congresswoman Williams voted against the FY 2025 NDAA, expressing concerns about excessive defense spending and policies she deemed extremist. She stated, “I have consistently called to rein in excessive defense spending so we can fully invest in our communities.”
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA): While specific votes on DARPA funding are not detailed, Williams emphasizes the importance of balancing national security needs with domestic priorities.
Demographics of Georgia’s 5th Congressional District
Georgia’s 5th Congressional District includes much of Atlanta and surrounding areas. As of 2022, the district had a population of approximately 756,319 people, with a median age of 34.7 years and a median household income of $76,066.