Biography

John J. Cavanaugh Jr., born on October 6, 1980, in Omaha, Nebraska, is a Democratic member of the Nebraska State Legislature representing District 9. He was elected in November 2020 and assumed office on January 6, 2021. Prior to his legislative service, Cavanaugh worked as an assistant public defender in Douglas County, advocating for indigent clients. He is married to Kathleen McGill, and together they have four children: Evelyn, Jack, Lucy, and William. Cavanaugh's commitment to public service is deeply rooted in his family; his father, John Joseph Cavanaugh III, served as a U.S. Congressman for Nebraska's Second Congressional District from 1977 to 1981, and his sister, Machaela Cavanaugh, is also a member of the Nebraska Legislature.

Education

• Creighton Preparatory School: Graduated in 1999.
• Catholic University of America: Earned a Bachelor of Arts in Politics in 2003.
• Vermont Law School: Obtained a Juris Doctor and a Master of Arts in Environmental Policy in 2011.

Political Experience

• Nebraska State Legislature: Serving as the Senator for District 9 since January 6, 2021.
• Douglas County Public Defender's Office: Served as an assistant public defender, representing indigent clients.
• United States Senate: Worked as Deputy Legislative Assistant and Counsel in 2012-2013.
• Organizing for America: Served as an Early Vote Organizer in 2012.

Notable Achievements and Positions

• Committee Assignments:

  • Member of the Agriculture Committee.
  • Member of the General Affairs Committee.
  • Member of the Natural Resources Committee.
  • Member of the Rules Committee.
  • Member of the Midwestern Higher Education Compact.

• Legislative Focus:

  • Advocates for quality public education and opposes efforts to fund private schools with public dollars.
  • Supports policies ensuring quality, affordable healthcare for all Nebraskans.
  • Committed to criminal justice reform, including addressing prison overcrowding and enhancing mental health services.
  • Promotes infrastructure and transportation alternatives, emphasizing sustainable public transportation.
  • Supports the legalization of cannabis for medicinal and recreational use, coupled with measures to expunge related convictions.

Cavanaugh's legislative efforts reflect his dedication to addressing the needs of his constituents in District 9 and the broader Nebraska community.