Jane Harman brings to her work a lifetime of commitment to Democratic ideals. Whether protecting our civil liberties while keeping our country secure, or leading the fight to protect and restore our environment, Jane has been clear and consistent in her pursuit of doing what’s right for America.

A leading Congressional expert on terrorism, homeland security and foreign affairs, Jane served eight years on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence where she played a lead role in the creation and passage of the Intelligence Reform Act of 2004. She was a frequent critic of George W. Bush’s Iraq War policy and fought for a comprehensive legal framework for post 9/11 policies on detention, interrogation, and government surveillance of Americans.  She opposed the Iraq War surge and is against the current surge policy in Afghanistan.

Today, she is a senior member of the Homeland Security Committee and Chair of its Intelligence and Terrorism Risk Assessment Subcommittee. She also serves on the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee, where she sits on the Telecommunications and Internet, and the Energy and Air Quality Subcommittees, respectively.

In addition to her focus on security issues, Harman is a leader in the House and the California congressional delegation on environmental policy. Her landmark legislation to phase out the inefficient 100-watt incandescent light bulb by 2012, coupled with her voting record in opposition to drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and off California's coastline, are the highlights of her pro-environment positions. She has been at the forefront of the battle on a woman's right to choose and on issues of interest to the gay and lesbian community.  Her legislative efforts have earned her 100% scores from advocacy groups like the California League of Conservation Voters, NARAL and the Human Rights Campaign.

Prior to her election to Congress, Harman worked as an attorney, served as deputy secretary to the Cabinet in the Carter White House and as a special counsel to the Department of Defense. She began her career on Capitol Hill as chief counsel and staff director for the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Constitutional Rights.

While out of Congress from 1999-2000, following an unsuccessful bid for Governor of California, Harman was named Regent's Professor at UCLA teaching public policy and international relations, She also served on the National Commission on Terrorism. Jane defeated a popular Republican incumbent to regain her seat and return to Congress.

A graduate of Los Angeles public schools, Harman has a B.A. from Smith College and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. She is married to Sidney Harman, founder and Chairman Emeritus of Harman International Industries. She has four adult children, and three grandchildren.