Cisneros, Gilbert Ray

Gilbert Ray Cisneros Jr. is a Democratic representative from California's 31st congressional district, first elected to Congress in 2018. As ranking member of the House Small Business Committee's Contracting and Infrastructure Subcommittee, he leads the Democratic opposition on issues affecting small business access to federal contracts and infrastructure opportunities. The subcommittee oversees how federal agencies award contracts to small businesses and examines policies that affect small business participation in government procurement and infrastructure projects. As ranking member, Cisneros shapes the Democratic agenda on these issues, questions witnesses during hearings, and advances alternative legislation.

Cisneros brings substantial relevant experience to this role. He worked as a shipping and manufacturing manager for Frito-Lay before being laid off in 2010, giving him firsthand knowledge of business operations. That same year, he and his wife won a $266 million Mega Millions lottery jackpot, which they deployed philanthropically through the Gilbert and Jacki Cisneros Foundation and other initiatives focused on education and mentorship. He later earned a Master of Arts in Urban Education Policy from Brown University and an MBA from Regis University, deepening his policy expertise.

Cisneros has also served in the Biden administration as Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness from 2021 to 2023, providing him with senior-level experience in federal personnel management and defense operations. His legislative work reflects his focus on military and small business issues. He has sponsored bills including the Streamlining Small Business Contracts Act of 2026, the Duty Status Reform Act, and the PROTECT Military Families Act, demonstrating a commitment to improving federal contracting processes and supporting military personnel and their families. He also serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Intelligence Committee, positioning him as a member engaged across defense and national security matters.