# Ro Khanna
Who / What
Ro Khanna is an American politician and attorney serving as the U.S. Representative for California’s 17th congressional district since 2017. As a member of the Democratic Party, he has played a significant role in shaping legislative policies on technology, innovation, and economic development.
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Background & History
Rohit "Ro" Khanna was born on September 13, 1976, in India to Indian-American parents. He immigrated to the U.S. with his family at a young age and grew up in California. After earning degrees from Stanford University (B.A., 1998) and Harvard Law School (J.D., 2004), he practiced law before entering politics.
Khanna first ran for Congress in 2014 but lost to incumbent Mike Honda. He won the seat in the 2016 general election, defeating Honda in a rematch. Before his congressional tenure, he served as Deputy Assistant Secretary in the U.S. Department of Commerce under President Barack Obama (2009–2011).
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Why Notable
Khanna is notable for his advocacy on issues related to technology, innovation, and economic policy. His work focuses on supporting startups, promoting digital equity, and addressing concerns about corporate influence in government. He has been recognized for his progressive stance on issues like healthcare reform, climate change, and labor rights.
His election marked a shift in representation for the 17th district, where he became one of the youngest members of Congress at the time. His background as an immigrant and attorney also brings unique perspectives to legislative discussions.
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In the News
As of recent years, Ro Khanna has remained active on key policy debates, particularly regarding tech regulation, AI ethics, and economic inequality. He frequently engages with media outlets discussing his role in shaping legislation that impacts California’s tech industry and national economic policies. His influence continues to grow as a vocal advocate for policies benefiting working-class Americans and entrepreneurs.
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Key Facts
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