Jake Wheatley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jake Wheatley
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| Member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from the 19th district |
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| In office January 7, 2003 – January 31, 2022 |
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| Preceded by | William Russell Robinson |
| Succeeded by | Aerion Abney |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 23, 1971 |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Residences | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
| Alma mater | North Carolina A&T State University (BA) University of Pittsburgh (MPA) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1989 — 1992 |
| Battles/wars | Gulf War |
| Awards |
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Jake Wheatley Jr. is an American politician. He served as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. This is a group of people who make laws for the state of Pennsylvania. He represented the 19th district. This district covers many neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. These include the Hill District, North Side, and South Side.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Jake Wheatley Jr. went to North Carolina A&T State University. There, he earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science. He then continued his studies at the University of Pittsburgh. He earned a master's degree in Public Administration.
Before his political career, Wheatley served in the United States Marine Corps. He was part of Operation Desert Storm. This was a military operation in the Middle East. For his service, he received several awards. These included the Combat Action Ribbon and the National Defense Service Medal.
Political Career
From 1998 to 2000, Jake Wheatley Jr. worked for Sala Udin. Sala Udin was a member of the Pittsburgh City Council. The City Council helps make decisions for the city. In 2002, Wheatley ran for a seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He won the election and began serving in 2003.
Important Roles
As a state representative, Wheatley held important positions. He was the Majority Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education. This group helps decide how money is spent on schools. He also chaired the Health and Human Services Subcommittee on Health.
Wheatley was also a member of other committees. These included the Education and Transportation committees. He served as Vice Chair for the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus. This group supports African American lawmakers. He was also a Deputy Majority Whip for the House Democratic Caucus.
Running for Mayor
In 2013, Jake Wheatley Jr. decided to run for Mayor of Pittsburgh. He sought the Democratic nomination in the election. He came in third place in the primary election. Bill Peduto won the primary and later became mayor.
Chief of Staff Role
After serving in the House, Wheatley took on a new role. In February 2022, he became Chief of Staff for Pittsburgh mayor Ed Gainey. As Chief of Staff, he helps the mayor manage city operations.
Committee Assignments
- Professional Licensure, Democratic Chair
