About me
Julie Elizabeth Johnson is a groundbreaking American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for Texas's 32nd congressional district since 2025, making history as the first openly LGBTQ person elected to Congress from the South. A member of the Democratic Party, she brings extensive legislative experience from her previous service in the Texas House of Representatives for District 115.
Johnson earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin and her Juris Doctor from the University of Houston Law Center, establishing the legal foundation that would inform her career in public service. Her political journey began with her 2018 victory over incumbent Republican Matt Rinaldi, making her one of Dallas County's first two openly gay legislators and the first member of the Texas House with a same-gender spouse.
During her tenure in the Texas legislature, Johnson demonstrated courage in her advocacy, notably joining the Texas House Democratic Caucus in their 2021 departure to Washington D.C. to delay voting on restrictive legislation during a special session. This bold action, despite threats of arrest from Texas House Republicans, exemplified her commitment to protecting democratic processes and vulnerable communities.
As Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus for the 119th Congress, Johnson has prioritized advancing comprehensive LGBTQ+ protections, including passage of the Equality Act. She serves on the House Committees on Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security, with subcommittee assignments spanning Europe, South and Central Asia, Border Security and Enforcement, and Emergency Management and Technology.
Johnson's historic election represents a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in Congress, particularly from traditionally conservative regions, while her leadership continues to focus on ensuring LGBTQ+ Americans and their families have the protections and support needed to thrive.
