Jo Ann Emerson (R-Mo.)
U.S. Representative (since November 1996)
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(Emerson Facebook page)
Now the dean of Missouri's congressional delegation, Emerson was elected to her eighth term in 2010, the same number of wins as her husband Bill Emerson who she succeeded in 1996 after he died from cancer.
Forced to run as an independent in 1996 due to the state's election rules involving an incumbent's death, Jo Ann Emerson has maintained that distinction despite serving as a House Republican. Though she has traditionally backed the GOP on the big bills, she has also found herself on the opposite side when voting on issues such as the Medicare prescription drug bill or the Iraq war. The Obama administration briefly and unsuccessfully courted the moderate Emerson in hopes of garnering support for the 2010 health-care reform bill. She is one of four co-chairs of the Center Aisle Caucus, a group of lawmakers dedicated to civility.
- Career History: Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, American Insurance Association (1994-1996); Director of State Relations and Grassroots Programs, National Restaurant Association (1991-1993); Deputy Communications Director, National Republican Congressional Committee (1983-1990)
- Birthday: Sept. 16, 1950
- Hometown: Bethesda, Md.
- Alma Mater: Ohio Wesleyan University, B.A. (1972)
- Spouse: Ron Gladney
- Religion: Presbyterian
- Committees: Appropriations
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