Biography
Harold "Hal" Rogers, born on December 31, 1937, in Barrier, Kentucky, has been serving as the U.S. Representative for Kentucky's 5th Congressional District since 1981. As a member of the Republican Party, he holds the distinction of being the longest-serving member of Congress from Kentucky. On March 18, 2022, Rogers became the Dean of the U.S. House of Representatives, recognizing him as the longest-serving member in the House.
Throughout his tenure, Rogers has focused on economic development, job creation, combating illegal drug use, and preserving the natural environment of Appalachia. He has been instrumental in establishing organizations such as Operation UNITE, Southeast Kentucky Economic Development , The Center for Rural Development, Eastern Kentucky PRIDE, and Shaping Our Appalachian Region , all aimed at revitalizing and supporting communities in southern and eastern Kentucky.
Education and Political Experience
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Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, University of Kentucky, 1962
- Bachelor of Laws , University of Kentucky Law School, 1964
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Political Experience:
- Commonwealth's Attorney for Pulaski and Rockcastle Counties, 1969–1980
- Republican nominee for Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky, 1979
- U.S. Representative for Kentucky's 5th Congressional District, 1981–present
- Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, 2011–2016
- Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies
- Member of the Subcommittee on Defense
- Member of the Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs
Rogers' extensive experience on the Appropriations Committee includes leadership roles as Chairman or Ranking Member of six different subcommittees. Notably, he was appointed in 2003 to lead the first Subcommittee on Homeland Security, where he worked to ensure adequate funding for first responders and advocated for stronger border security.
His commitment to fiscal responsibility is evident in his tenure as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, during which he led efforts to reduce discretionary spending by $126 billion. Rogers continues to serve as a strong voice in Congress for economic development, national defense, and the prosperity of America.
