Beto O'Rourke is a prominent figure in American politics and business, known for his role as a U.S. Representative for Texas' 16th Congressional District. Born on September 26, 1972 in El Paso, Texas, O'Rourke grew up in a family that was heavily involved in local politics. His father served as County Commissioner and County Judge of El Paso, instilling in O'Rourke a passion for public service from a young age.
O'Rourke attended Columbia University, where he earned his BA in English Literature. While at Columbia, he also pursued a music career and released a self-titled 7" record on the Western Breed label in 1993. After graduating, O'Rourke returned to El Paso and became involved in local politics, eventually serving on the El Paso City Council starting in June 2005.
In 2012, O'Rourke ran in his first democratic primary and won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in January 2013. He quickly gained a reputation as a progressive voice in Congress, advocating for issues such as immigration reform, healthcare access, and gun control.
In 2018, O'Rourke made headlines with his bid for the U.S. Senate, ultimately facing off against incumbent Ted Cruz. Despite a closely contested race, O'Rourke narrowly lost to Cruz, but his campaign garnered national attention and solidified his status as a rising star in the Democratic Party.
In 2005, O'Rourke married Amy Hoover Sanders, with whom he has three children. The couple is actively involved in community service and philanthropy, supporting causes such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
In a move that made headlines in June 2016, O'Rourke endorsed Hillary Clinton in her bid for the presidency. As the last Democratic congressman to do so during the primaries, O'Rourke's endorsement was seen as a significant boost to Clinton's campaign.
Throughout his career, O'Rourke has been a passionate advocate for progressive policies and social justice issues. His unique blend of business acumen, political savvy, and dedication to public service have made him a respected figure in American politics.