Adriano Espaillat's Biography

Adriano Espaillat is an influential American politician, recognized as the first formerly undocumented immigrant to serve in the United States Congress. Born on September 27, 1954, in Santiago, Dominican Republic, Espaillat immigrated to the United States as a child, eventually settling in New York City. He pursued higher education at Queens College, City University of New York, where he laid the foundation for his long-standing commitment to public service. Espaillat's political journey began in earnest in 1996 when he was elected to the New York State Assembly, representing Upper Manhattan. He later served in the New York State Senate before making history in 2016 by becoming the first Dominican-born member of Congress, representing New York's 13th congressional district. Known for his passionate advocacy on immigration reform, affordable housing, and education, Espaillat is a prominent voice for marginalized communities. Over the years, he has been recognized with awards such as the National Hispanic Leadership Agenda Award and the NALEO Public Service Award. Despite facing challenges, including residency questions during his campaigns, Espaillat's resilience and commitment have made him a respected leader. With an estimated net worth of $900,000 in 2024 and a congressional salary as his main source of income, he remains dedicated to public service, community outreach, and championing the rights of immigrants and working families across the nation.