Congressman Jim McDermott is a Catalyst for Progress
Career Highlights
- Representative McDermott has long advocated for strengthening the budget rather than cutting key investments like science. Recently he’s supported eliminating tax loopholes for profitable corporations (Stop Tax Haven Abuse Act S. 1346), opposed the 2012 Paul Ryan budget that made drastic cuts while giving more to the wealthiest, and supported tax reform to ensure the wealthiest pay their fair share (Paying a Fair Share Act of 2012 S. 2230).
- McDermott supported funding for consequential agricultural and USDA research, backing Agricultural Research Bill S. 1150 that allocated $2.3 billion for programs, research, and education.
- McDermott has been a champion for foster children, sponsoring and helping to pass legislation that extended federal foster care payments until children are 21 years old, so vulnerable teenagers are not left without support or resources on their 18th birthday.
- McDermott joined Rep. George Miller to lead efforts to roll back Sequester cuts and reinvest in science research, and helped secure the support of 38 of his colleagues.
- In 2005, McDermott co-sponsored the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. This legislation would have provided the Department of Health and Human Services the ability and support needed to use human embryonic stem cells in vital research on Alzheimer’s, cancer, and countless other afflictions.