James Langevin facts for kids

Quick facts for kids James Langevin
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Rhode Island's 2nd district
In office January 3, 2001 – January 3, 2023
Preceded by	Robert Weygand
Succeeded by	Seth Magaziner
24th Secretary of State of Rhode Island
In office January 3, 1995 – January 3, 2001
Governor	Lincoln Almond
Preceded by	Barbara Leonard
Succeeded by	Ed Inman
Member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives from the 29th district
In office January 4, 1989 – January 3, 1995
Preceded by	Marion G. Donnelly
Succeeded by	Joseph McNamara
Personal details
Born	(1964-04-22) April 22, 1964 (age 61) Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.
Political party	Democratic
Education	Rhode Island College (BA) Harvard University (MPA)

James R. Langevin (born April 22, 1964) is an American politician. He served as a U.S. representative for Rhode Island from 2001 to 2023. He is a member of the Democratic Party. James Langevin was the first person who uses a wheelchair to serve in the U.S. Congress. In 2019, he was also chosen to be the first speaker pro tempore of the U.S. House of Representatives who uses a wheelchair. He decided not to run for reelection in 2022.

Early Life and Education

James Langevin was born in Providence, Rhode Island. His parents were Richard and Judy Langevin. He has French-Canadian family roots. He went to Bishop Hendricken High School in Warwick, Rhode Island.

College and University Studies

Langevin then attended Rhode Island College. He earned his first degree there. While at Rhode Island College, he was also the president of the Student Community Government, Inc. Later, he earned a master's degree in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School at Harvard University.

Overcoming Challenges

In 1980, when he was 16, James Langevin had a serious accident. He was working with the Boy Scout Explorer program at the Warwick Police Department. A firearm accidentally went off, and he was left paralyzed. This meant he would use a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

Rhode Island Government Service

James Langevin's journey in politics began early. In 1986, he was elected to the state's constitutional convention. This was a special meeting to discuss changes to the state's rules. He was named the secretary of this convention.

Serving as State Representative

In 1988, Langevin was elected to the Rhode Island General Assembly. He served as a state representative until 1994. During his time, he was known for working hard for the people of Rhode Island.

Becoming Secretary of State

In November 1994, he was elected Secretary of State of Rhode Island. He won against the person who held the job before him, Barbara Leonard. As Secretary of State, he gained a good reputation. He worked to make sure the state government was fair and honest.

U.S. House of Representatives

James Langevin was first elected to the United States House of Representatives in 2000. He represented Rhode Island's 2nd congressional district. He took office in 2001. He was reelected several times easily.

Working on Committees

In the U.S. House of Representatives, members work in special groups called committees. These groups focus on different topics. Langevin was part of important committees:

• Committee on Armed Services: This committee deals with the military and national defense.
  • Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces
  • Subcommittee on Strategic Forces
  • Subcommittee on Intelligence, Emerging Threats and Capabilities (He was the leader of this group.)
• Committee on Homeland Security: This committee focuses on protecting the country from threats.
  • Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection
  • Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications

Joining Caucuses

Langevin also joined several caucuses. These are groups of lawmakers who share common interests.

Political Views and Actions

James Langevin had clear views on many important issues. He often voted in line with the Democratic Party's goals.

Healthcare Support

Langevin strongly supported making healthcare better for everyone. He wanted all Americans to have good, affordable health insurance. He believed in a system that focuses on prevention and lowers healthcare costs over time.

Stem Cell Research

One of Langevin's main goals in Congress was to increase funding for stem cell research. This was very important to him because of his own paralysis. He believed this research could help many people with similar conditions. He helped introduce laws to expand funding for this important scientific work.

Cybersecurity Focus

Langevin was a leader in cybersecurity. He helped create the House Cybersecurity Caucus. This group works to raise awareness about protecting computers and data from attacks. He believed in strong punishments for internet crimes and laws to protect online privacy. He also supported measures to protect the nation's important computer systems from cyber threats.

In 2015, when a major data breach happened at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Langevin spoke out. He called for the leader of the office to step down, saying they did not understand how to protect important data.

Support for Armed Forces

As a member of the Armed Services Committee, Langevin often voted to support the military. He supported providing resources for troops. He also voted for plans to set a timeline for U.S. forces to leave Iraq.

Tax Policies

Langevin believed in tax cuts for families with lower and middle incomes. He wanted to remove tax cuts for very wealthy individuals. He also supported temporary benefits for businesses to help them create more jobs.

Advocacy for People with Disabilities

Langevin at the 2017 Bristol Fourth of July Parade

James Langevin was a strong voice for people with disabilities. He was the first person who uses a wheelchair to serve in Congress. He often spoke about the importance of research and support for people with disabilities.

In 2007, he helped create the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act. This law aimed to improve research into paralysis and help people living with disabilities. The bill became law in 2009.

In 2010, Langevin made history again. He became the first member of Congress who uses a wheelchair to lead a session of the House of Representatives. This was possible because a special lift was installed for the Speaker's platform.

Environmental Protection

Langevin was a strong supporter of protecting the environment. He received high ratings from environmental groups. He supported using clean energy sources like wind power instead of oil and coal. He also fought for stronger environmental rules to help people live healthier lives. He believed that protecting the environment was a matter of pride for Rhode Islanders.

Political Campaigns

James Langevin was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2000. He won the seat that was open after Robert Weygand ran for the U.S. Senate. He easily won reelection several times.

2010 Election

In 2010, he won against Mark Zaccaria again.

2012 Election

Langevin was reelected in 2012 with 55.7% of the votes. He won against Michael Riley and Abel Collins.

Personal Life

James Langevin is a Roman Catholic.