The 119th Congress has officially begun, with the Senate convening to welcome a dozen new senators to the Capitol’s upper chamber. Among the new members are a diverse group of individuals, including both Democrats and Republicans, each with their own unique backgrounds and experiences. From combat veterans to former prosecutors, these new senators are eager to make their mark in Washington and tackle the pressing issues facing the nation.
One of the new senators is Jim Banks, a Republican from Indiana who has served in the House since 2017. A 45-year-old Afghanistan War veteran and father of three, Banks has a humble upbringing, having grown up in a trailer park and being the first in his family to attend college. He credits former President Trump for transforming the Republican Party and attracting working-class voters. Banks is focused on pro-worker policies and aims to extend Trump’s expiring tax cuts, address border security, and combat the drug epidemic. He is also open to bipartisan collaboration on issues like vocational education and trade school grants.
Andy Kim, a Democrat from New Jersey, has held national security roles in both the Bush and Obama administrations. He never planned to run for office but was motivated by a desire to restore trust in politics. Kim hopes to find common ground on issues like the opioid crisis, investments in AI, and youth mental health. As the first Korean-American senator in history, Kim sees his election as a milestone but not a barrier he set out to break. He is proud to represent his community and is committed to serving his constituents.
John Curtis, a former mayor of Provo, Utah, has represented the Beehive State in the House since 2017. He is now replacing Sen. Mitt Romney in the Senate but has made it clear that he is his own person. Curtis aims to support President Trump’s agenda while also speaking out when he disagrees. His priorities include energy reform, public lands, deficit reduction, and foreign relations. Curtis is hopeful about finding common ground with Democrats on issues like permitting reform.
Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, is a seasoned politician who rose to national prominence during Trump’s first impeachment trial. Schiff is focused on delivering for Californians in the Senate, whether it means working across party lines or standing up to the president when necessary. He is committed to addressing housing costs, homelessness, public safety, and health care. Schiff has already engaged in bipartisan discussions on rural health care and housing and is optimistic about collaborating with Republican senators.
Tim Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL and founder of an aerial firefighting company, defeated long-serving Democrat Jon Tester in Montana. Sheehy’s military background inspired him to get involved in politics, particularly after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He is a strong advocate for Trump’s “America First” agenda and believes in making decisions that benefit the country’s economy and national security. Sheehy is open to working with Democrats and has already had positive discussions on fighting wildfires.
Ruben Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona, has been a vocal advocate for veterans’ rights and mental health services. As the first Korean-American senator in history, Gallego is committed to addressing issues like border security, water security, and housing prices. He admires former Sen. John McCain’s approach to national security and Native American issues and hopes to continue his legacy in the Senate. Gallego recognizes the challenges facing Arizona and is dedicated to finding solutions that benefit all residents.
Bernie Moreno, a Colombian-born businessman, defeated Sen. Sherrod Brown in Ohio to join the Senate. Moreno is a strong supporter of Trump’s agenda, emphasizing the importance of border security and American energy. He believes that hard work and perseverance are key to achieving the American dream and is committed to delivering results for his constituents. Moreno is open to working with Democrats and hopes to build a new era of Republican leadership in the Senate.
Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA officer, has represented Michigan in the House since 2019 and is now replacing Sen. Debbie Stabenow in the Senate. Slotkin is known for her bipartisan approach and is focused on issues like gun violence, opioid addiction, mental health, and reproductive rights. She believes that Michigan must remain a place where anyone can enter the middle class and is dedicated to upholding democracy and protecting democratic values.
Angela Alsobrooks, a former prosecutor and county executive from Maryland, is making history as the first Black senator from Maryland. Alsobrooks is committed to representing all Marylanders and bringing diverse perspectives to the Senate. She recognizes the importance of her role and is determined to advocate for her constituents on a wide range of issues. Alsobrooks is inspired by the legacy of those who have come before her and is eager to make a positive impact in the Senate.
Lisa Blunt Rochester, the first woman and person of color to represent Delaware in Congress, is now taking on the role of senator after the unexpected death of her husband. Blunt Rochester is known for her work across the aisle and her commitment to supporting families, lowering costs, and protecting national security. She pays homage to her predecessor, Sen. Tom Carper, and is determined to continue his legacy of service and leadership in the Senate.
Dave McCormick, a combat veteran and former hedge fund CEO, defeated Bob Casey in Pennsylvania to secure a seat in the Senate. McCormick is focused on addressing key issues like inflation, border security, and crime while embracing American energy. He is committed to working with Democrats to achieve his agenda and believes that collaboration is essential to moving the country forward. McCormick is eager to join the Senate and make a meaningful impact on behalf of the people of Pennsylvania.
Jim Justice, the outgoing Republican governor of West Virginia, is stepping into the role of senator after Sen. Joe Manchin’s retirement. Justice, known for his colorful personality and loyal English bulldog companion, Babydog, is expected to bring his unique perspective to the Senate. He is committed to working with both parties to address the needs of West Virginians and move the state forward.
Overall, the 12 new senators bring a wealth of experience, diversity, and passion to the Senate. From combat veterans to former prosecutors, these individuals are dedicated to serving their constituents and making a positive impact in Washington. As they embark on their Senate careers, they will face a wide range of challenges and opportunities, but their commitment to public service and the well-being of their communities will guide their efforts in the years to come.
