Ramirez, Delia C.

Delia Ramirez represents Illinois' 3rd Congressional District, which includes parts of Chicago and its western suburbs. First elected in 2022 and sworn into office on January 3, 2023, she made history as the first Latina from the Midwest to serve in Congress. Before her federal service, Ramirez was a member of the Illinois House of Representatives from 2018 to 2023, where she served as Assistant Majority Leader. Her professional background is rooted in social services and nonprofit leadership, having served as the executive director of the Center for Changing Lives and as board chair for the Latin United Community Housing Association.

In the House, Ramirez holds key assignments on the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. She serves as the Ranking Member of the Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, where she focuses on government accountability and economic opportunity for former service members. Her legislative priorities are heavily influenced by her background as the daughter of Guatemalan immigrants and her status as the only member of Congress in a mixed-status marriage. She is a vocal advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, housing as a human right, and expanded access to healthcare.

Ramirez has sponsored several notable bills, including the Student Veteran Benefit Restoration Act and the Lobbyist Loophole Closure Act. She is an active member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and has been a leading voice on the Dream and Promise Act. Her work often bridges the gap between local community needs and federal policy, particularly regarding affordable housing and the protection of tenant rights. Through her committee roles, she also oversees border security and enforcement, advocating for policies that balance national security with humanitarian considerations.