Erica Lee

Erica Lee was born in Sacramento, California. She earned a bachelor's degree from the California State University, Sacramento.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m a fifth-generation Sacramentan and proud Sacramento State graduate running to represent the working class in Congress. I’ve served as a state worker, organizer, and caregiver—and I know firsthand the struggles working people face. Today, just 2% of Congress comes from working-class backgrounds while most members remain beholden to special interests and corporate donors.

I left the incumbent’s district to work in Washington, D.C., after losing my mother to cancer. I focused on healthcare policy, continuing to support healthcare organizations as they advocate for legislative change. My father, a disabled Vietnam veteran, dedicated his life to ensuring Californians had access to quality healthcare. I intend to carry on his legacy by fighting for universal healthcare, a livable wage, housing for all, bold climate action, and real campaign finance reform.

I’ve worked on numerous progressive campaigns and have seen how urgently we need to get money out of politics.

I’m not running for another term—I’m running for YOU.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

We need strong, comprehensive campaign finance reform. Right now, incumbents spend far too much time fundraising and campaigning year-round. Imagine how much more Congress could accomplish if lawmakers focused on governing instead of chasing donations.We need universal healthcare—now. Countries with national healthcare systems consistently achieve better health outcomes while spending far less than the United States. I've experienced the failures of our system firsthand: despite having insurance, I was forced to pay thousands out-of-pocket for necessary medical care. When my mother was dying, the insurance company she had paid into for years tried to remove her from the hospital because she was "taking too long to die."

No one should have to endure that. It’s time for a healthcare system that puts people before profits—one that is compassionate, affordable, and truly accessible to all.Our planet's health is teetering on the point of no return, and we’re running out of time. We’re also facing a climate crisis that can’t wait and we’re already behind—but we still have a chance to act. Bold, urgent climate action is essential to securing a livable future for today’s children and generations to come.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

The universality of healthcare and housing, addressing climate change, and money out of politics.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am resourceful, reliable, and resilient.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The Challenger explosion.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I worked at an ice creamery for several months as many students from my high school did but grew tired of smelling like ice cream after every shift. I was then hired to work at Blockbuster Video across the parking lot but then I was robbed during a day shift so maybe the ice creamery wasn't so bad after all.

What committees interest you?

Energy and Commerce and Oversight