Biographies of the Arts Caucus Co-Chairs

The bi-partisan Congressional Arts Caucus is lead by co-chairs Rep. Louise M. Slaughter (NY-28) and Rep. Todd R. Platts (PA-19).

Congresswoman Louise McIntosh Slaughter, the Democratic Co-Chair of the Congressional Arts Caucus, is one of the most powerful and unique figures in the House of Representatives. The only microbiologist in Congress, Rep. Slaughter was first elected in 1986 and is now serving her 13th term in Congress.  Representing the 28th Congressional District of New York State, she works tirelessly on behalf of the district and her constituents know her as a fighter for increased economic development across Western New York.  Over the years, Rep. Slaughter has earned a reputation for her dedication to constituent service while simultaneously being a strong progressive voice on a host of national issues, from the war in Afghanistan and global trade to government reform and genetics.  Learn more about Co-Chair Louise M. Slaughter here.

Congressman Todd Russell Platts, the Republican Co-Chair of the Congressional Arts Caucus, represents the 19th District of Pennsylvania. Sworn in as a member of the House of Representatives in January 2001, Congressman Platts serves the residents of Adams, Cumberland, and York Counties. Congressman Platts started his career as an attorney and left practice to begin his career in public service in 1993 when he was elected to serve the people of York County as a State Representative in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. He was re-elected to his post three times, serving in that role until his 2000 election to the United States Congress.  Congressman Platts is a devoted husband to wife Leslie, and a proud father to their children T.J. (14) and Tommy (11).   Learn more about Co-Chair Todd R. Platts here.