What is Rosa DeLauro's Net Worth?
Rosa L. DeLauro is an American politician who has a net worth of $3 million. For some reason, Rosa's net worth has dropped from a peal of around $16 million between 2008 and 2017, to under $3 million, according to her last several financial disclosures.
Rosa DeLauro has served as the U.S. Representative for Connecticut's 3rd congressional district since 1991, establishing herself as one of Congress's most progressive and effective legislators. Known for her fierce advocacy of public health, food safety, workers' rights, and women's issues, DeLauro has risen to become a powerful voice in Democratic leadership, including her role as Chair of the House Appropriations Committee from 2021-2023. Her trademark short, spiky hair and bold fashion choices have made her instantly recognizable in the halls of Congress, where she has earned a reputation as both a skilled legislator and a passionate defender of working families.
Early Life and Education
Born to Italian-American parents in New Haven, Connecticut, DeLauro grew up immersed in local politics. Her father Ted was a New Haven City Council president, and her mother Luisa was the longest-serving member of the New Haven Board of Aldermen. She attended Marymount College for her undergraduate degree and later earned her master's degree in International Politics from Columbia University. Her early exposure to public service and progressive politics would shape her future career trajectory.
Early Career and Political Rise
Before entering Congress, DeLauro served as the first Executive Director of EMILY's List, an organization dedicated to electing pro-choice Democratic women to office. She also worked as Chief of Staff for Senator Christopher Dodd, gaining valuable experience in national politics. This background prepared her for her successful 1990 congressional campaign, where she won the seat she has held ever since.
Legislative Achievements and Policy Focus
In Congress, DeLauro has championed numerous significant pieces of legislation, particularly in the areas of public health and consumer protection. She has been a leading advocate for food safety reform, helping to pass the Food Safety Modernization Act. Her work on the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee has enabled her to secure crucial funding for medical research, education, and worker protection programs.
One of her signature achievements has been her persistent advocacy for the Child Tax Credit, which she first proposed in 2003 and saw temporarily expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. This policy has been credited with significantly reducing child poverty in the United States.
Leadership and Committee Work
DeLauro's influence in Congress has grown substantially over her tenure. Her election as Chair of the House Appropriations Committee in 2021 marked a significant milestone, making her one of the most powerful women in Congress. She has also served as co-chair of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee and has been a member of the House Democratic leadership.
Personal Life and Advocacy Style
Known for her passionate speaking style and distinctive personal presentation, DeLauro has earned respect from both allies and opponents for her thorough command of policy details and unwavering advocacy for her beliefs. She is a cancer survivor, having overcome ovarian cancer in the 1980s, an experience that has informed her strong support for healthcare access and medical research funding.