Scalise, Steve

Steve Scalise is a Republican U.S. Representative for Louisiana's 1st Congressional District, a position he has held since 2008. Born in New Orleans and raised in Jefferson Parish, he earned a degree in computer science from Louisiana State University before working as a systems engineer and marketing executive. His political career began in the Louisiana State Legislature, where he served in both the House and Senate from 1996 until his election to Congress.

In the House, Scalise has been a prominent member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. His legislative priorities often center on American energy independence, fiscal discipline, and coastal restoration for Louisiana. He notably led the effort to pass the RESTORE Act in 2012, which directed oil spill fines toward coastal recovery. He has also been a vocal advocate for tax reform, including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and has sponsored legislation to expand the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area.

Scalise currently serves as the House Majority Leader, the second-highest position in the House Republican leadership. He previously held the roles of House Majority Whip and House Minority Whip, where he was responsible for building party consensus on key votes. His tenure is also marked by his resilience following a life-threatening injury during a 2017 congressional baseball practice, an event that drew national attention to his recovery and return to service.