Biography
Sanford D. Bishop Jr., born on February 4, 1947, in Mobile, Alabama, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving Georgia's 2nd Congressional District since 1993. His district encompasses 30 counties in Middle and Southwest Georgia, including cities like Albany, Thomasville, and parts of Columbus and Macon.
Bishop is recognized for his bipartisan approach, being a member of the Blue Dog Coalition, which represents moderate to conservative Democrats. He has held various leadership roles, including serving as the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies.
Throughout his tenure, Bishop has focused on issues such as agriculture, military affairs, and veterans' services. He has been instrumental in securing federal funding for education programs, infrastructure projects, and economic development initiatives within his district.
Education and Political Experience
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Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Morehouse College, 1968
- Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law, 1971
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Political Experience:
- Georgia House of Representatives, 1977–1990
- Georgia State Senate, 1991–1992
- U.S. House of Representatives, 1993–present
In Congress, Bishop has served on several key committees, including the House Committee on Appropriations. He has been a member of various caucuses, such as the Congressional Black Caucus and the Blue Dog Coalition.
Bishop's legislative efforts have earned him numerous awards, including the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America and the Spirit of Enterprise Award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
He resides in Albany, Georgia, with his wife, Vivian Creighton Bishop, and is an active member of the Mount Zion Baptist Church.
