John Cornyn
Senator from Texas (Republican)
Term: December 2002 – January 2027
Biography
John Cornyn is the senior United States Senator from Texas, first elected in 2002. He has served in Senate Republican leadership and is known for his focus on national security, judiciary, and criminal justice issues.
Early Life & Education
Born in Houston, Texas, Cornyn earned his B.A. from Trinity University and his J.D. from St. Mary's University School of Law before completing an LL.M. at the University of Virginia.
Education: Trinity University (B.A. 1973), St. Mary’s University School of Law (J.D. 1977), University of Virginia School of Law (LL.M. 1995)
Career
Before his Senate career, Cornyn served as a district judge, a Texas Supreme Court justice, and the Attorney General of Texas. In the Senate, he served as Majority Whip and on several key committees.
Policy Positions
- Economy & Taxes: Supports lowering corporate taxes and simplifying the federal tax code to promote economic growth.
- Immigration & Border Security: Advocates for stronger border enforcement while supporting legal immigration reforms and DACA compromise legislation.
- National Security: Emphasizes defense readiness and cybersecurity initiatives to counter global threats.
- Judiciary & Law Enforcement: Supports criminal justice reform, judicial efficiency, and Second Amendment protections.
Committee Assignments
- Committee on Finance
- Committee on the Judiciary
- Select Committee on Intelligence
Legislation
Sponsored Bills
-
S. 4787 - Bipartisan Fentanyl Eradication and Prevention Act — Introduced (Apr 09, 2024)
A bill to increase law enforcement coordination and enhance penalties for international fentanyl trafficking. -
S. 341 - Justice Served Act of 2023 — Passed Senate (Mar 02, 2023)
Provides federal funding to help prosecute cold case sexual assault crimes using DNA evidence.
Recent Votes
- Nov 08, 2024 — H.R. 4366 - Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2024: Yes
- Oct 20, 2024 — S. 1271 - Infrastructure Funding Extension Act: Yes
Career Timeline
- 1952 — Born in Houston, Texas
- 1985 — Elected District Judge, Bexar County, Texas
- 1990 — Elected to the Texas Supreme Court
- 1999 — Elected Attorney General of Texas
- 2002 — Elected to the U.S. Senate
- 2015 — Served as Senate Majority Whip
Media Gallery
Videos
Contact Information
Office: 517 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-2934
Fax: (202) 228-2856