Biography
Robert Jacobsen Menendez Jr., commonly known as Rob Menendez, is an American lawyer and politician serving as the U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 8th congressional district since January 3, 2023. Born on July 12, 1985, in Union City, New Jersey, he is the son of former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and Jane Jacobsen, a public school educator. Raised in a family with a strong commitment to public service, Rob has dedicated his career to advocating for the needs of his constituents.
Education and Political Experience
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Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Juris Doctor from Rutgers Law School
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Political Experience:
- Served as a Commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey from 2021 to 2023, where he chaired the Governance and Ethics Committee and was a member of the Finance Committee.
- Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2022, representing New Jersey's 8th congressional district.
- Appointed to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, serving on the Subcommittees on Energy, Environment, and Communications and Technology.
- Serves as a Regional Whip for the House Democratic Caucus, assisting in advancing legislative priorities.
- Vice Chair of Policy for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
- Member of various caucuses, including the House Pro-Choice Caucus, LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus, Dads Caucus, Armenian Caucus, SALT Caucus, Cybersecurity Caucus, Homelessness Caucus, Mental Health Caucus, Quiet Skies Caucus, Ports, Opportunity, Renewal, Trade, and Security Caucus, Labor Caucus, and 5G and Beyond Caucus.
Throughout his tenure, Representative Menendez has focused on issues such as increasing affordability, combating climate change, expanding affordable housing, enhancing public safety, and investing in transportation infrastructure. He resides in Jersey City with his wife, Alex, and their two children.
