Summary
Current Position: US Representative of CA District 41 since 1993 (Formerly 42nd)
Affiliation: Republican
Former Position: Real Estate Industry from 1975 – 1999
Other positions: Subcommittee on Defense
District: includes the cities of Palm Springs, Menifee, Calimesa, Norco, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, and most of Corona
Quotes:
In my op-ed in today’s Washington Times I explain how we can build infrastructure quicker and at a lower cost while maintaining environmental protections.
OnAir Post: Ken Calvert CA-41
News
Los Angeles Times, – April 26, 2024
California House Districts 13, 22, 27, 41, 45, and 47.
Over 2,000 miles west of the nation’s Capitol, the battle for control of the House of Representatives in 2025 is being waged in farmland along Highway 99, fast-growing commuter communities north and east of Los Angeles and Orange County beach towns and inland suburbs.
While Republicans currently have a razor-thin majority in the House, partisan makeup of next year’s Congress will almost certainly be decided this November — at least in part — by a handful of hypercompetitive California races.
California “is, along with New York, one of the two most important paths to potential Democratic control of the House,” said Dave Wasserman, senior editor and elections analyst for the nonpartisan Cook Political Report.
About
Source: Government Page
Ken Calvert, a lifelong resident of Riverside County and 17-year small business owner in the restaurant and real estate industries, represents the 41st Congressional District of southern California. Calvert was born on June 8, 1953 and attended neighborhood public schools, graduating from Corona High School in 1971. He attended two years at Chaffey College and then enrolled at San Diego State University, where he graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. Throughout his life, Ken has been actively involved and served in leadership roles with several local community volunteer organizations, including the Corona Chamber of Commerce, the Corona Rotary, and the Corona-Norco Family YMCA.
The 41st District stretches across Riverside County including the cities of Corona, Norco, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Canyon Lake, Menifee, Calimesa, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Indian Wells, and portions of Eastvale and Riverside.
Rep. Calvert was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1992 and is one of the most senior members serving in the legislative body. Rep. Calvert is the Dean of the California Republican Delegation.
In the 118th Congress, Rep. Calvert continues to serve on the House Appropriations Committee. Rep. Calvert serves as the Chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. He also sits on the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee.
In the 118th Congress, Rep. Calvert’s legislative priorities includes: enacting pro-growth policies that will help strengthen our economy for American families; supporting the men and women serving in our military around the world; fixing our broken immigration system by restoring the rule of law and making the use of E-Verify mandatory for all employers in the U.S.; honoring promises made to our veterans, advocating for NIH research for cures for our most deadly diseases; creating long-term solutions to California’s water challenges; reducing the time it takes to build infrastructure projects by making common sense, bipartisan reforms to our environmental laws; funding the development of the life-saving Earthquake Early Warning System; and, much more.
Personal
Full Name: Ken S. Calvert
Gender: Male
Family: Divorced
Birth Date: 06/08/1953
Birth Place: Corona, CA
Home City: Corona, CA
Religion: Protestant
Source: Vote Smart
Education
BA, Economics, San Diego State University, 1975
AA, Chaffey College, 1973
Political Experience
Representative, United States House of Representatives, California, District 41, 2023-present
Representative, United States House of Representatives, District 42, 1992-2023
Candidate, United States House of Representatives, California, District 41, 2022
Candidate, United States House of Representatives, 1982
Professional Experience
Congressional Aide, Office of Representative Victor Veysey, United States House of Representatives
General Manager, Jolly Fox Restaurant, 1975-1991
President, Ken Calvert Real Estate Properties, 1980-1991
Employee, Marcus W. Meairs Company, 1979-1981
Offices
WASHINGTON DC OFFICE
2205 Rayburn Building
Washington, DC 20515Phone: (202) 225-1986
Fax: (202) 225-2004
PALM DESERT OFFICE
73710 Fred Waring Drive
Suite 129
Palm Desert, CA 92260Phone: (760) 620-0041
CORONA OFFICE
400 S. Vicentia Avenue
Suite 125
Corona, CA 92882Phone: (951) 277-0042
Fax: (951) 277-0420
Contact
Email: Government
Web Links
Politics
Source: none
Finances
Source: Vote Smart
Committees
Rep. Calvert currently serves on the House Appropriations Committee, where he serves as the Chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. He also sits on the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee.
Congressional Caucuses
Co-Chaired Caucuses
ALS Caucus (Co-Chair)
California Aerospace Caucus (Co-Chair)
Caucus Membership
Air Force Caucus
Animal Protection Caucus
Armenian Caucus
Army Caucus
Autism Research and Education Caucus
Boating Caucus
Border Security Caucus
Cancer Caucus
Cystic Fibrosis Caucus
Diabetes Caucus Election Integrity Caucus
Family Business Caucus
Friends of Denmark Caucus
Heart and Stroke Coalition
Hellenic Caucus
International Conservation Caucus
Internet Caucus
Korea Caucus
Law Enforcement Caucus
Long Range Strike Caucus
Modeling & Simulation Training Caucus
NASA Caucus
National Guard & Reserve Components Caucus
National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Caucus
Native American Caucus
Navy-Marine Corps Caucus
Rare Disease Caucus
Real Estate Caucus
Special Operations Forces Caucus
Sportsmen’s Caucus
Travel and Tourism Caucus
United Kingdom Caucus
Unmanned Systems Caucus
Wine Caucus
New Legislation
Learn more about legislation sponsored and co-sponsored by Congressman Calvert.
Issues
Source: Government page
Agriculture
The American farmer is an integral part of country’s fabric and remains an essential member of communities across the nation. Additionally, the world renowned California agriculture industry is one of the most significant contributors to our state’s economic engine.
Farmers across the country, including California, face serious challenges: pests and disease, a shortage of water, regulatory burdens, and low market prices and unfair trade barriers. The government must address these problems as well as work to expand market opportunities and provide emergency assistance when appropriate and needed. American farmers also need a reliable and affordable source of water, which is why I will continue to advocate on behalf of comprehensive water solutions for California and the rest of the nation. I will also continue to work with our farmers to ensure that American crops are treated fairly by countries that export crops to the United States and that any agricultural products entering the country are free from pests and diseases.
America’s agricultural industry is one of the most capable in the world and their ability to compete and thrive depends on the freedom for them to produce in a fair marketplace and without being severely hindered by conditions beyond their control. Americans need their government to ensure that they will continue to have an affordable, safe and reliable food supply.
Defense
Education
I fully recognize that the future of America is linked to the successful education of our children. While public education has traditionally been a right and responsibility of states and local communities, federal funding and control has increased over recent years. As a result there has been a growing debate on whether federal involvement in education, and the billions in federal spending that comes with it, is actually improving educational opportunity.
I support the reevaluation of the federal role in education and believe that federal policy must always balance the need for standards and accountability with the rights of students, families and teachers while preserving local control of K-12 education. And in a time of ever more tight budgets, where spending restraint is necessary to decrease the federal deficit, innovative and effective education policy must be the guiding principle.
Energy and the Environment
The energy challenges facing our nation continue to pose a significant burden on American families as well as our domestic economic security. To meet our energy needs, our country must take action on multiple policy fronts.
In the short term, we must reduce our dependence on foreign sources of energy by increasing domestic production of American resources. In the long term, we must make significant investments that will help our country lead the world in the development and production of energy efficient and renewable energy technologies.
The congressional district I represent encompasses a diverse environmental cross-section of California’s extraordinary landscape. The district also includes natural resources that are part of the Cleveland National Forest and the Santa Ana River. Our region continues to work towards a balance between economic development and environmental protection. During my career in public service I have spent a great deal of time working with local stakeholders as they strive to find this balance.
Ethics Approval
In 2006, the Los Angeles Times published a story alleging Rep. Calvert had personally benefitted from a federal funding request. The story falsely stated that the request was for a freeway interchange near property Rep. Calvert owned and later sold and alleged the sale experienced a higher profit because of the federal funds obtained for the interchange. However, the interchange was actually located 16 miles from the property and local experts have stated that the possibility of an interchange had no effect on the property value of the land, especially since the freeway interchange had yet to even be built or fully funded.
The local Press Enterprise published a follow-up storyand determined that the property had been sold at fair market value and matched sale prices of similar properties in the area. It was also reported that the Riverside Transit Agency requested funding for the project as part of the State Transportation Infrastructure Plan (STIP), a multi-year transportation plan crafted by local officials. The Press Enterprise later editorialized that the claims against Rep. Calvert were unfounded. Read the editorial here.
In response to the Los Angeles Times story, Rep. Calvert also sought out the opinion of the Democratically Chaired House Ethics Committee which determined that, after reviewing the facts, Rep. Calvert had indeed acted properly. Click here to read the letter from the House Ethics Committee which is comprised equally of both Republicans and Democrats.
At no time has Rep. Calvert been under any investigation. All funding requests sponsored by Rep. Calvert originate with a local county, city, transportation agency, or other public agency, not from Rep. Calvert personally.
In another issue, Rep. Calvert was a silent one-third partner in Stadium Properties. In 2006, the partnership in good faith and in good money bought a 4.3-acre parcel of land in Jurupa from the Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) and received clear title to that land. It was later determined that the JCSD had not publicly noticed the land which is required by state law. The Jurupa Area Recreation and Parks District (JARPD) expressed interest in the land and took action against the JCSD and threatened eminent domain on the property. In a Grand Jury Report (read here), the Grand Jury found that JCSD had violated the law but found no wrong-doing on the part of Stadium Properties or Rep. Calvert. Throughout the dispute, Stadium Properties repeatedly stated they wanted to work with both the JCSD and JARPD to resolve the issue. After four years, the dispute between the two agencies was settled with the statement that Stadium Properties acted properly and had no knowledge of the violation of the law. Read the story here.
Health Care
With premiums rising, deductibles increasing, and health care choices decreasing, American families know all too well that we must find health care solutions that increase access to care and lower costs. That’s exactly why I am working with my colleagues to advance patient-centered health care solutions. Any reforms to our health care policies will continue to protect American families by ensuring people with pre-existing conditions are not denied heath care policies and allowing the coverage of dependents until they are 26 years old.
Homeland Security and Illegal Immigration
The security of our homeland is under constant threat by the crisis at the southern border, heightened by our broken immigration system, and exacerbated by the flow of illicit narcotics into our communities.
First and foremost, we must regain operational control of our border. Since January 2021, more than 4.6 million individuals have been apprehended attempting to illegally enter the United States through the southern border. America is a nation of immigrants, but we are a beacon of hope throughout the world because we respect and enforce the rule of law.
I regularly visit the southern border to see the situation on the ground firsthand, meet with border patrol officials and community leaders in the impacted regions, and understand what resources are needed to combat this crisis.
In 1996 I authored the legislation which later became the E-Verify program, the only tool available for employers to voluntarily check the legal status of newly hired employees. Over the years, I have worked steadily to expand E-Verify and make It mandatory for all employers in the U.S. On January 12, 2023, I reintroduced the Legal Workforce Act (H.R. 319) which would do just that and help cut off the job magnet that draws people here illegally.
I also believe that to truly secure our homeland, we must stop the flow of illicit narcotics into our communities. Fentanyl, in particular, is especially deadly and is being trafficked across our southern border every day. Riverside County loses more than one person a day, on average, from a fentanyl-related poisoning. This is why I helped launch and am a co-chair of the Bipartisan Fentanyl Prevention Caucus which works to educate the community on the dangers of fentanyl, understand the pipelines that bring it into the United States, and stop its proliferation into our neighborhoods.
My record on border security, ensuring a legal workforce, and rejecting amnesty is second to none in Congress and I will continue to fight for the integrity of our borders and the security of our homeland as your Representative in Congress. Below are some of the initiatives I support in the 118th Congress to secure our borders and stop illegal immigration:
- HELD Act (H.R. 136) – I am the sponsor of the Help Ensuring Legal Detainers (HELD) Act which would require local municipalities to respond to an ICE detainer issued by the Secretary of Homeland Security promptly to arrange for custody of the illegal immigrant.
- The Security First Act (H.R. 163) – I am a cosponsor of this legislation which provides additional resources for law enforcement through Operation Stonegarden, a grant program that allows local law enforcement to assist border patrol efforts at the southern border.
- The STOP Fentanyl Act (H.R. 355) – I am a cosponsor of this legislation which puts sentencing for fentanyl-related offenses on par with other narcotics, such as methamphetamine.
- I believe we should complete the fence along our southern border with a physical barrier where possible, and state-of-the-art technology where it is not.
- I fully support our Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers who are the first line of defense at our ports of entry. I believe we must ensure CBP is adequately funded and that our officers have the appropriate technology to keep themselves and our communities safe.
Jobs, Economy and Federal Spending
I understand the impact of a stagnant job market on my constituents and on hard-working Americans across the country, and am committed to working with my colleagues – on both sides of the aisle – to advance long-term, pro-growth policies that get our economy growing.
I support the following targeted solutions: simplify the tax code, lower the corporate tax rate, halt all job-killing regulatory proposals, reduce employer payroll taxes for newly-hired employees; make E-Verify – the only tool for employers to verify the legal status of potential employees – mandatory in all 50 states; and open global markets to American products.
As a former small business owner, I understand what it means to sign the front of a payroll check, and what that paycheck means to families. Putting Californians back to work remains a top priority.
Small Business
As a former small business owner, I recognize that small business is the engine of job growth in our country and the backbone of our economy. Small businesses employ more than 50 percent of the private work-force, generate half of the nation’s gross domestic product and are the principal source of new jobs in the U.S. economy. The federal government’s job is not to stifle the prosperity of these businesses through an onerous tax and regulatory system but to stay out of the way so that the transactions of a free market may take place. I continue to support legislation which gives small employers options to deal with the surging cost of health care; strives to keep taxes low; advocates for the SBA; encourages federal agencies to do more business with U.S. small businesses; and continues to fight burdensome and unnecessary federal regulations which hamper small business growth and job creation.
Social Security and Medicare
I have always been, and will continue to be, dedicated to working toward a solution so that all who have paid into the Social Security system will benefit fairly.
As it has become increasingly obvious that Social Security will go bankrupt without action, Congress has been working to find a solution. While we continue to work to protect and preserve Social Security for the beneficiaries now on the roles and those near retirement, we must also seek out innovative solutions for the millions of younger Americans who will one day rely on the program.
Social Security provides an important safety net for the senior citizens of our nation and I believe that every American who has contributed to Social Security deserves the benefits for which they have paid. The retirement of the baby boomers represents a huge demographic shift that will greatly impact Social Security. With the cost of living in California rising at an alarming rate and the baby-boom population reaching retirement, it is important that Congress take actions to protect current benefits and ensure long-term solvency of the Social Security program. I remain committed to working in a bipartisan manner to strengthen Social Security for current beneficiaries and future generations.
There are a variety of proposals to address the unfunded liability of the Social Security system. Some plans seek to create voluntary individual retirement accounts to replace the current system, and others would retain part of the current system while adding individual accounts. I believe that younger Americans who want to move towards higher yield investments should have that option as long as today’s seniors and near seniors will not be affected by such a transition. I do not support the government investing Social Security funds in the stock market and I will never support legislation that would change current retirees’ benefits.
I also support eliminating the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision and restoring benefits to federal, state, and local government workers, that is why I am a cosponsor of the Social Security Fairness Act.
Ensuring the long-term solvency of the Medicare and Medicaid programs is a top priority. One way to improve Medicare’s financial outlook is to ensure that the program only pays for services for which reimbursement is due. I support all efforts to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse that exist in the Medicare system today so that Medicare and Medicaid are available to serve America’s future generations.
Maintaining solvent and stable Medicare and Social Security programs is paramount to my legislative goals. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress and the President to ensure America continues to maintain strong and reliable Social Security and Medicare systems.
Taxes
For too long government has assumed that a percentage of an individual’s income is owed to them. However, I believe that it is the government who is beholden to the people. Individuals should expect results from the hard earned money that they turn over every year to the federal government. Everyone who works hard deserves to keep the money they earn and, in turn, spend or save as they see fit. By letting the people keep more of their income, they are able to spend more on goods and services thereby contributing to a robust national economy. When taxes are raised, people are inclined to spend less and our economy suffers. That is why, since my first term in office, I have consistently worked for lower taxes and less government spending.
I share hard working Americans’ frustration with the Internal Revenue Service and our current convoluted tax code. I believe that Congress should encourage a full discussion and act on fundamental tax reform. Whether it is a flat income tax, a national sales tax or another idea, I will support a tax plan which provides fairness to the taxpayer and makes the system less complicated.
I have consistently voted for lower taxes, and will continue to do so. In recent years, Congress has cut the marriage penalty tax, increased the child tax credit, lowered tax rates for everyone, and I will continue to work to end the death tax once and for all.
Transportation
The 41st Congressional District encompasses some of the fastest growing communities in the nation. As is often the case, population growth has been closely followed by increased demands on transportation infrastructure. The Inland Empire region, which consists of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, was recently bestowed the dubious distinction of having the highest commuting cost in the nation. Just last year, another study determined that residents of the city of Riverside had the unhealthiest commute in America. I have and will continue to support efforts to improve Riverside County transportation infrastructure with both federal funding and policy changes that allow us to build projects faster.
Veterans and Military Retirees
America’s veterans are the reason we are able to enjoy the freedoms we have today. Because of their sacrifice and honor, our country has prevailed over the worst of foes. That is why it is imperative that our country never forgets the price that has been paid for the quality of life that we now enjoy. A veteran is the picture of courage, strength, resolve and loyalty.
My commitment to the highest standard of treatment to our veterans and retirees will not waiver. The debt that is owed to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our freedoms is one that can never fully be repaid. Our men and women in uniform injured or wounded in the line of duty deserve not only the respect of their country, but the best medical care available.
As Congress works to rein in spending, funding for veterans and military retirees is still a top priority. I will work to ensure adequate funding for Veterans Affairs claims processing, oppose TRICARE fee and premium increases on families and retirees, and fight to ensure returning veterans have opportunities to work and continue to contribute to our communities. While Congress works through this difficult budget environment it is important to minimize the impact on programs that our servicemembers, retirees, and veterans rely on.
As a country it is our duty to respect the memory of those lost and honor those who have fought on the beaches of Normandy, the hills of Korea, the jungles of Vietnam, the mountains of Afghanistan and the sands of Iraq. They are our neighbors and fellow citizens and their sacrifice demands our humility and deepest gratitude.
Water
For many years California water users have experienced fairly level water rates. However, some communities have begun to see rate increases because the population growth in southern California has not been matched by similar growth in available water supplies. Local water agencies must ultimately decide what water rates are appropriate in order for them to provide water to their users.
In December of 2007, U. S. District Judge Oliver Wanger issued a final ruling that is expected to result in the reduction of water deliveries from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta by about a third, in an effort to protect the endangered delta smelt. The ruling comes at a time when 23 California counties are under a federal drought emergency declaration, and the Colorado River is experiencing historically low flow levels. If these conditions continue, Californians in many areas may be faced with mandatory water rationing in the not too distant future.
I believe that California must address its water imbalance by increasing water supplies and taking appropriate measures to reduce water demand. Significant investments are needed to improve our water infrastructure, including additional surface and groundwater storage, a comprehensive Bay Delta solution and water use efficiency. California must continue to examine water recycling, desalination, and conservation methods to efficiently manage our water supplies.
As the former Chairman of the House Water and Power Subcommittee, I have worked to maintain and enhance a reliable water supply in California and our nation. My legislation, H.R. 2828, the Water Supply, Reliability and Environmental Enhancement Act, was passed during the 108th Congress and signed into law by President Bush. This federal reauthorization of the California-Federal Bay Delta Program (CALFED) will play a critical role in developing new water yield and adequate storage.
More Information
Services
Source: Government page
District
Source: Wikipedia
California’s 41st congressional district is a congressional district in Riverside County, in the U.S. state of California. The district is currently represented by Republican Ken Calvert.
It includes the cities of Palm Springs, Menifee, Calimesa, Norco, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, and most of Corona. The representative for the 41st is Ken Calvert, who was redistricted from the 42nd district. It contains most of the western part of the Palm Springs Area with the exception of Cathedral City, as well as commuter towns in the Greater Los Angeles area, and exurban and rural areas in South-Western Riverside County.
Now that the district contains the heavily Democratic cities of Palm Springs and Palm Desert, along with the swing city of Corona and conservative areas in western Riverside County, such as Norco, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Wildomar, and Calimesa. The district is considered a swing seat, rated as a “Toss Up” by the Cook Political Report.
Wikipedia
Kenneth Stanton Calvert (born June 8, 1953)[1] is an American businessman and politician serving as the U.S. representative for California’s 41st congressional district, and previously the 44th, 42nd, and 43rd, serving since 1993. He is a member of the Republican Party. The district is part of the Inland Empire of Southern California.
Early life, education, and business career
Calvert was born in Corona, California, to Marceline Hamblen and Ira D. Calvert Jr., and still lives in Corona. In 1970, shortly after high school, he joined the congressional campaign of former state Assemblyman Victor Veysey. Calvert worked in Veysey’s Washington, D.C., office as an intern after a 1972 victory. He graduated from Corona High School in 1971.[1]
Calvert received an Associate of Arts degree from Chaffey Community College in 1973 and a Bachelor of Arts degree from San Diego State University in 1975. After college, he became a small business owner in the restaurant and real estate industries.[2]
U.S. House of Representatives
Elections
In 1982, the 29-year-old Calvert ran for the United States House of Representatives to represent a newly drawn district. He narrowly lost the Republican primary to Riverside County Supervisor Al McCandless, who was the choice of the Republican establishment. McCandless won the general election. From 1984 to 1988, Calvert chaired the Riverside County Republican Party.[1]
Calvert was first elected to the House in a new district in 1992, while McCandless was reelected in a different district. Calvert won the general election with 47% of the vote, defeating Democrat Mark Takano by 519 votes. In 1994, he defeated Joe Khoury in the Republican primary, 51% to 49%. He was reelected in the 1994 general election with 55% of the vote, again defeating Takano.[3]
In 1996, Calvert was reelected with 54% of the vote, defeating Democrat Guy Kimbrough. In 1998 he defeated Democrat Mike Rayburn with 55% of the vote. Calvert won again in 2000 with 74% of the vote, facing no major-party opposition.[4]
Calvert was reelected in 2002, defeating college administrator Louis Vandenberg with 64% of the vote. He defeated Vandenberg again in 2004 with 61% of the vote, and in 2006 with 60% of the vote.[5]
In 2008, Calvert had a surprisingly close race, defeating Democratic nominee Bill Hedrick with 52% of the vote.[6] He declared victory immediately, but Hedrick waited three weeks before conceding, due to unusually high turnout prolonging the vote-counting process.[7]
In 2010, Hedrick ran against Calvert again. While most pundits, such as Larry Sabato, expected him to lose again,[8] sources such as The New York Times ranked the race more competitive. The New York Times re-ranked this race from solid Republican to leaning Republican.[9] Calvert won by ten percentage points.[10]
The National Journal's Cook Political Report named Calvert one of the top 10 Republicans most vulnerable to redistricting in 2012, largely due to his district’s rapidly growing Hispanic population.[11] Despite this, Calvert defeated opponent Michael Williamson with 61% of the vote.[12]
In 2022, Calvert sought reelection in California’s 41st congressional district due to redistricting.[13] He defeated Democrat Will Rollins in the November 2022 general election.[14]
In 2024, Calvert won a rematch against former prosecutor and 2022 Democratic candidate Will Rollins.[15][16]
Tenure
111th and 112th Congress
On June 10, 2009, Calvert introduced H.R. 2788, the Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial Act. This Act designates a national memorial at March Field Air Museum in honor of current and former members of the armed forces who have been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Calvert worked to assemble a bipartisan group of 48 cosponsors for this legislation. On March 19, 2010, H.R. 2788 unanimously passed the House of Representatives.[17] Calvert introduced H. Res. 377, a bill recognizing Armed Forces Day and the service of the members of the United States Armed Forces on April 29, 2009. This bill received 70 bipartisan cosponsorships and passed the House unanimously on May 14, 2009.[18]
On March 25, 2010, Calvert introduced H. Res. 1219 to support the designation of a National Child Awareness Month to promote awareness of children’s charities and youth-serving organizations across the country. He assembled 40 bipartisan cosponsors for this bill and on July 19, 2010, the bill passed the House with unanimous support.[19]
Calvert is a member of the Republican Main Street Partnership.[20]
In December 2017, Calvert voted in favor of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,[21] calling it “the most pro-growth tax policy our country has seen in decades.” He also said that it would provide “lower taxes, more jobs, and higher wages.”[22]
Committee assignments
For the 118th Congress:[23]
Caucus memberships
- House Baltic Caucus[24]
- Congressional Western Caucus[25]
- United States Congressional International Conservation Caucus[26]
Political positions
NASA
In the 109th Congress, Calvert chaired the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee, which oversees NASA. As chair, he introduced and passed into law the NASA Authorization Act of 2005 (P.L. 109–155), the first reauthorization bill of civilian space and aeronautics agency in five years. The reauthorization provided NASA with the direction and tools to implement President George W. Bush‘s vision for space exploration while stressing the importance of NASA’s earth and space science and aeronautics work.[27]
Abortion
Calvert supported the overturning of Roe v. Wade, saying it “shifts the power to set abortion policies to Congress and to the States”.[28]
LGBTQ+ rights
Calvert opposed gays serving in the military.[29]
In 2009, he voted against the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.[30]
On July 19, 2022, Calvert and 46 other Republican U.S. representatives voted for the Respect for Marriage Act, which would codify the right to same-sex marriage in federal law.[31]
Military
In September 2023, Calvert criticized far-right Republicans for stalling annual Pentagon funding legislation. Calvert said “what’s happening is the military is being held hostage to these procedural votes, so that can’t happen.”[32]
Attempt to overturn 2020 election
In December 2020, Calvert signed onto the lawsuit seeking to overturn the 2020 presidential election.[33] The Supreme Court refused to hear the case on December 11.
In January 2021, Calvert voted with six other Republican representatives from California to reject the certification of Arizona’s and Pennsylvania’s electoral votes.[34][35] He questioned the results of the election, saying: “during difficult and divisive times in our nation I believe we must follow the Constitution. That’s why today I lent my voice to the millions of Americans and my constituents who are deeply concerned by the integrity of the election … I remain especially troubled by constitutionally questionable changes of voting rules in some states by authorities other than state legislatures.”[35]
Israel
Calvert voted to provide Israel with support following the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel.[36][37]
E-Verify
Calvert is the original author of the E-Verify law, the only employment verification program available to employers to check the work authorization status of newly hired employees. In 1995, he introduced H.R. 502, which was later included in the immigration reform bill, H.R. 2202.[38] The immigration reforms were later wrapped into the FY1997 Omnibus Appropriations Act.[39] The original program, known as the Basic Pilot Program, was only available to five states and employers used a call-in system. In the 12 years since its implementation, the Basic Pilot Program, now known as E-Verify, has expanded nationwide and is used by over 100,000 employers. Arizona and Mississippi have made use of E-Verify mandatory. In the 111th Congress Calvert again introduced legislation to make use of E-Verify mandatory.[40]
CALFED
As Chairman of the Resources Subcommittee on Water and Power, Calvert introduced H.R. 2828, The Water Supply, Reliability, and Environmental Improvement Act, which reauthorizes the CALFED Bay-Delta program. The CALFED Bay-Delta Program is a unique collaboration among 25 state and federal agencies that came together with a mission to improve California’s water supply and the ecological health of the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.[41] H.R. 2828 provides a long-term federal authorization for the western region for water supply and reliability. The bill became Public Law 108-361.[42]
Personal life
In 1993, two Corona, California, police officers found Calvert with a prostitute in his car. He told the police that he and the woman were “just talking”. The Press-Enterprise later went to court to force the Corona police to release the police report.[43] After the report was released, Calvert admitted to having sex with the woman in his car; the police did not have enough evidence to arrest him, as there was no witness to any exchange of money.[44][45]
Calvert is an Episcopalian.[46]
See also
References
- ^ a b c “CALVERT, Ken 1953 –”. Biographical Directory of the United States Congress. Retrieved October 28, 2024.
- ^ Uken, Cindy (September 3, 2022). “Ken Calvert Featured at GOP Group Grand Opening”. Uken Report. Retrieved October 28, 2024.
- ^ “1994: Ken Calvert and Mark Takano got personal”. Press Enterprise. May 22, 2012. Retrieved October 28, 2024.
- ^ . U.S. House of Representatives https://clerk.house.gov/member_info/electionInfo/2000election.pdf. Retrieved October 28, 2024.
{{cite web}}: Missing or empty|title=(help) - ^ California Secretary of State, 2006 general election results Archived June 11, 2007, at the Wayback Machine, U.S. Congress District 44. Retrieved November 14, 2006.
- ^ California Secretary of State, 2008 general election results, U.S. Congress District 44. Retrieved December 8, 2008.
- ^ Goad, Ben (November 28, 2008). “Calvert challenger in 44th Congressional District concedes defeat”. The Press-Enterprise. Archived from the original on December 4, 2008. Retrieved December 8, 2008.
- ^ “California (44) House 2010”. Sabato’s Crystal Ball. University of Virginia Center for Politics. August 9, 2010.
Bill Hedrick faces an uphill battle to defeat Ken Calvert….
- ^ “Fund-Raising in the Most Competitive Races”. The New York Times. July 16, 2010.
- ^ Goad, Ben (November 3, 2010). “HOUSE: Region’s congressional incumbents complete clean sweep”. The Press-Enterprise. Riverside. Archived from the original on November 7, 2010. Retrieved November 6, 2010.
- ^ Wasserman, David; Edwards, Julia (April 15, 2011). “Top 10 Republicans Most Vulnerable to Redistricting”. Cook Political Report. National Journal. Archived from the original on May 1, 2011. Retrieved April 25, 2011.
- ^ “Statement of Vote: November 6, 2012 General Election” (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on December 24, 2012. Retrieved October 16, 2014.
- ^ Coulter, Tom (December 27, 2021). “GOP Rep. Ken Calvert will seek re-election in new district that includes Palm Springs”. The Desert Sun. Retrieved January 18, 2022.
- ^ Reyes, Jesus (November 22, 2022). “Will Rollins concedes to Ken Calvert in 41st Congressional District race”. KESQ. Retrieved November 30, 2022.
- ^ Radin, Danielle (March 6, 2024). “All eyes turn to Rep. Ken Calvert and Will Rollins in highly-anticipated race for CA’s 41st District”. CBS News. Retrieved March 6, 2024.
- ^ Gardiner, Dustin (November 13, 2024). “California Republican Ken Calvert holds off Dem challenge in Palm Springs area”. Politico. Retrieved November 18, 2024.
- ^ Calvert, Ken (March 22, 2010). “Actions – H.R.2788 – 111th Congress (2009–2010): Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial Act”. www.congress.gov.
- ^ Calvert, Ken (May 22, 2009). “Actions – H.Res.377 – 111th Congress (2009–2010): Recognizing Armed Forces Day and the exemplary service of the members of the United States Armed Forces”. www.congress.gov.
- ^ Calvert, Ken (July 19, 2010). “H.Res.1219 – 111th Congress (2009–2010): Expressing support for designation of September as National Child Awareness Month”. www.congress.gov.
- ^ “Members”. Republican Mains Street Partnership. Archived from the original on August 26, 2018. Retrieved September 22, 2017.
- ^ Almukhtar, Sarah (December 19, 2017). “How Each House Member Voted on the Tax Bill”. The New York Times. Retrieved January 3, 2018.
- ^ “Riverside Co. Reps At Odds Over Trump’s Tax Plan”. Temecula, CA Patch. December 19, 2017. Retrieved January 3, 2018.
- ^ “Ken Calvert”. Office of the Clerk, U.S. House of Representatives. Clerk of the United States House of Representatives. Retrieved May 1, 2023.
- ^ “Members”. House Baltic Caucus. Retrieved February 21, 2018.
- ^ “Members”. Congressional Western Caucus. Retrieved June 27, 2018.
- ^ “Our Members”. U.S. House of Representatives International Conservation Caucus. Archived from the original on August 1, 2018. Retrieved August 1, 2018.
- ^ Pub. L. 109–155 (text) (PDF): National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005
- ^ “Rep. Calvert Statement on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Ruling”. Congressman Ken Calvert. June 24, 2022. Retrieved June 28, 2022.
- ^ Shafer, Scott (October 22, 2022). “Republican Rep. Ken Calvert’s district now includes queer friendly Palm Springs”. NPR. Retrieved May 22, 2024.
- ^ Lopez, German (June 13, 2016). “Here are the members of Congress who voted against protecting gay people from hate crimes”. Vox. Retrieved May 22, 2024.
- ^ Schnell, Mychael (July 19, 2022). “These are the 47 House Republicans who voted for a bill protecting marriage equality”. The Hill. Retrieved July 25, 2022.
- ^ O’Brien, Connor (September 15, 2023). “‘The military is being held hostage’: Republicans hit GOP hard-liners over defense spending bill”. POLITICO. Retrieved September 27, 2023.
- ^ McAllister, Toni (December 11, 2020). “Rep. Ken Calvert Signed Brief That Backed Trump, Texas Lawsuit”. Murrieta, CA Patch.
- ^ Yourish, Karen; Buchanan, Larry; Lu, Denise (January 7, 2021). “The 147 Republicans Who Voted to Overturn Election Results”. The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved January 8, 2021.
- ^ a b McAllister, Toni (January 7, 2021). “GOP Rep. Calvert Explains Why He Rejected AZ, PA Election Results”. Lake Elsinore-Wildomar, CA Patch. Retrieved January 8, 2021.
- ^ Demirjian, Karoun (October 25, 2023). “House Declares Solidarity With Israel in First Legislation Under New Speaker”. The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved October 30, 2023.
- ^ Washington, U. S. Capitol Room H154; p:225-7000, DC 20515-6601 (October 25, 2023). “Roll Call 528 Roll Call 528, Bill Number: H. Res. 771, 118th Congress, 1st Session”. Office of the Clerk, U.S. House of Representatives. Retrieved October 30, 2023.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ 1996 Congressional Quarterly Almanac
- ^ Pub. L. 104–208 (text) (PDF): Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act, 1997
- ^ H.R. 19: To require employers to conduct employment eligibility verification
- ^ About CALFED
- ^ H.R. 2828: Water Supply, Reliability, and Environmental Improvement Act
- ^ Robinson, Jack (November 3, 1994). “Two years have brought Calvert crises, lessons”. The Press-Enterprise. p. B01.
- ^ Gorman, Tom (April 27, 1994). “Scandal Imperils Young Political Career : Politics: After months of denial, a Riverside congressman admits sexual relations with a known prostitute. ‘I was feeling intensely lonely,’ he says”. Los Angeles Times.
- ^ Eilperin, Juliet (October 2006). “Running for Their Lives”. The Atlantic.
- ^ “Religious affiliation of members of 118th Congress” (PDF). Pew Research Center. January 3, 2023.
External links
- Congressman Ken Calvert official U.S. House website
- Ken Calvert for Congress
- Biography at the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress
- Financial information (federal office) at the Federal Election Commission
- Legislation sponsored at the Library of Congress
- Profile at Vote Smart
- Appearances on C-SPAN
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