Congressman Keith Ellison

Keith Ellison has represented the Fifth Congressional District of Minnesota in the U.S. House of Representatives since taking office on January 4, 2007. The Fifth Congressional District is the most vibrant and ethnically diverse district in Minnesota with a rich history and traditions. The Fifth District includes the City of Minneapolis and the surrounding suburbs.

Representative Ellison is a member of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL). He previously served two terms representing Legislative District 58B in the Minnesota State House of Representatives, from 2003 to 2007. While in the State Legislature, he served on the Public Safety, Policy and Finance Committee, and the Election and Civil Law Committee. Ellison led efforts to protect Minnesota children from dangerous pesticides and chemicals; he promoted legislation to restore the voting rights of ex-offenders; and he successfully advocated for an increase in the state's minimum wage.

Ellison made history as the first African American from Minnesota to serve in the U.S. Congress. He also made history by becoming the first person of the Muslim faith in America to serve in Congress.

Representative Ellison's philosophy is one of "generosity and inclusiveness." His roots as a community activist and his message of inclusivity through democratic participation resonates throughout the Fifth District. His priorities in Congress are: promoting peace, prosperity for working families, and promoting civil and human rights.

Representative Ellison serves on the Financial Services and Foreign Affairs Committees. The Financial Services Committee provides oversight for the nation's housing and financial services sector, while the Foreign Affairs Committee oversees the country's diplomatic affairs.

Ellison, now 45 years old, was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. He moved to Minnesota in 1987 to attend the University of Minnesota Law School, where he earned his law degree in 1990. Keith, and his wife Kim Ellison, have lived on the Minneapolis Northside for the past eighteen years. They are the proud parents of four children.