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Congresswoman Barbara Lee, a stalwart representative of California's 12th District since 1998, has broken barriers and championed progressive causes throughout her distinguished career. Her influence extends to the highest echelons of Democratic leadership, where she serves as the co-chair of the Policy and Steering Committee, advocating for diversity and Democratic ideals. With strategic roles on the influential Budget and Appropriations committees, she wields immense influence over federal spending decisions. Notably, she became the first African American to lead the House Appropriations subcommittee on state and foreign operations; and related programs in 2021. In addition to her leadership roles, Lee chairs the Majority Leader's task force on poverty and opportunity and co-chairs the pro-choice caucus and the cannabis caucus. Lee isn't one to hold her tongue when something doesn't sit well with her. This year, she called for a ceasefire in Gaza, echoing her decision to be the sole vote against former Pres. George W. Bush when he launched "the war on terror" in 2001. She called out her own Gov. Gavin Newsom for his caretaker comment following Sen. Diane Feinstein's death. And she has launched a run for Senate. Her legacy includes chairmanship of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chairing the Congressional Progressive Caucus, making her a tireless advocate for social justice and a trailblazer in American politics.