Scalise, Steve

Steve Scalise has represented Louisiana's 1st Congressional District since 2008, serving the New Orleans suburbs and surrounding areas. Before his election to Congress, he worked as a software engineer and served in the Louisiana State Legislature from 1996 to 2008. Scalise earned a degree in computer science from Louisiana State University and is a native of Jefferson Parish.

Scalise holds the position of House Majority Leader, the second-highest position in House Republican leadership. In this role, he is responsible for scheduling legislation for votes and setting the House's legislative agenda. Previously, he served as House Majority Whip from 2014 to 2018 and House Minority Whip from 2019 to 2022. He also chaired the Republican Study Committee from 2013 to 2014.

A committed conservative, Scalise advocates for fiscal discipline, lower taxes, robust national defense, and strong border security. He has championed energy policy and development, particularly important to Louisiana's economy. Notably, he led the effort to pass the RESTORE Act in 2012, which dedicated Clean Water Act fines from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill to coastal restoration—widely regarded as the most significant action taken to restore Louisiana's coast.

In 2017, Scalise was critically wounded during a shooting at a congressional baseball practice but returned to Congress after recovery, demonstrating resilience that inspired many. He is married to Jennifer and has two children.