Definition
Valerie Foushee (born 1956) is an American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for North Carolina’s 4th congressional district since January 2023. She is a member of the Democratic Party.
Overview
Foushee began her political career in the North Carolina General Assembly, where she served in the State House of Representatives from 2013 to 2020, representing the 41st district. In 2020, she was appointed to the North Carolina Senate to fill a vacancy in the 23rd district and won election to a full term in 2022. Following the resignation of Congressman David Price, she won the Democratic primary and the subsequent special election for the 4th congressional district, taking office in the 118th Congress. Her legislative focus has included education, criminal justice reform, healthcare access, and economic development.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Valerie” is derived from the Latin Valeria, the feminine form of Valerius, meaning “strong” or “healthy.” The surname “Foushee” is of French origin, likely a variant of “Fouché,” which historically referred to a maker of fuses or a person living near a fork in a road.
Characteristics
- Political affiliation: Democratic Party.
- Committee assignments (118th Congress): Member of the House Committee on Education and Labor; member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
- Legislative interests: Advocacy for public education funding, expansion of Medicaid, voting rights protections, and infrastructure investment.
- Education: Bachelor of Arts in political science from North Carolina Central University; Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University.
- Professional background: Prior to elected office, Foushee worked in public administration and community development, including positions with the North Carolina Department of Administration and local nonprofit organizations.
Related Topics
- United States House of Representatives
- North Carolina’s 4th congressional district
- Democratic Party (United States)
- North Carolina General Assembly
- Education policy in the United States
- Criminal justice reform legislation.