Karen Bass

Karen Ruth Bass (born October 3, 1953) is an American politician and social worker serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 37th congressional district. She is a member of the Democratic Party.

Early Life and Education

Karen Bass was born in Los Angeles, California. She attended California State University, Dominguez Hills, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences. She later received a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California.

Career

Social Work

Before entering politics, Bass worked as a social worker and was involved in community organizing. She founded the Community Coalition, an organization focused on addressing social and economic issues in South Los Angeles.

Political Career

Bass was elected to the California State Assembly in 2004. She served as the Speaker of the California State Assembly from 2008 to 2010, becoming the first African-American woman to hold the position.

In 2010, Bass was elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing California's 37th congressional district. She has been re-elected multiple times and has served on various committees, including the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the House Judiciary Committee.

Political Positions

Bass is known for her work on healthcare reform, criminal justice reform, and foreign policy. She has been an advocate for affordable housing, education, and social justice.

Personal Life

Karen Bass is a resident of Los Angeles. She has one daughter, Emilia Bass-Lechuga, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2006.

See Also

• California State Assembly
• United States House of Representatives
• Democratic Party (United States)

References

• Official House of Representatives Biography
• Community Coalition

External Links

• Official U.S. House website
• Campaign website

• 
  Mayor Karen Bass official portrait
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  Karen Bass and Diane Watson in 2010
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  Karen Bass speaking in support of Black Dreamers
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  Martin Luther King Jr. station dedication
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  Karen Bass, 2021