Jewish Members of Congress: Benjamin Cardin (Senator, Maryland)

Elected to the Senate in 2006, Senator Ben Cardin is a forceful leader on health care, retirement security, and fiscal issues. Formerly a representative for Maryland's third congressional district, Cardin led on healthcare issues, expanding Medicare and increasing the amount Americans can save for retirement. He also fought for vulnerable citizens in our society, increased job training, education and childcare for those leaving public assistance programs. In the House of Representatives, Cardin voted against authorizing President Bush to use military force in Iraq and as Senator has continued to advocate that the President bring our troops home. Cardin has received numerous honors for his influence and commitment to progressive issues, including Worth Magazines top "100 people who have influenced the way Americans think about money," an A grade from the NAACP and a 100% rating from the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, League of Conservation Voters and National Hispanic Leadership Agenda. He also has a deep commitment to foreign affairs and human rights and is the Vice President of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly. Cardin currently serves on the Foreign Relations Committee, Judiciary Committee, Environment and Public Works Committee, Budget Committee and Small Business Committee. Cardin serves as an honorary chairman of the National Jewish Democratic Council. He and his wife of 41 years, Myrna, have a daughter, Deborah, and two grandchildren, Madeline and Julia.

For more information on Senator Cardin, please visit http://cardin.senate.gov/about/.