U.S. Representative for New York's 13th congressional district since 2017. First Dominican American and first formerly undocumented immigrant to serve in Congress. Currently serves as Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus during the 119th Congress. Born in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.
Serving
About
Family & Heritage
Born in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, the son of Melba Rodriguez and Ulises Espaillat. His family is descended from Dominican President Ulises Espaillat. Immigrated to the United States as a child without documentation, later becoming a naturalized citizen. Married to Martha M. Madera since 1979; they have two children.
Political Career
Before Politics
Manhattan Court Services Coordinator for the NYC Criminal Justice Agency. Director of the Washington Heights Victims Services Community Office. Director of Project Right Start, a national initiative funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to combat substance abuse. Served in the New York State Assembly from 1997 to 2010. Served in the New York State Senate from 2011 to 2016.
Education
B.S. in Political Science, Queens College (1978); Bishop Dubois High School (1974); Postgraduate studies in Public Administration, New York University; Rutgers University Leadership for Urban Executives Institute
Key Issues & Priorities
Comprehensive immigration reform and pathway to citizenship
Protecting DACA recipients and DREAMers
Affordable housing and community development
Healthcare access
Education funding
Family reunification for separated immigrant families