In this episode of “The Nation’s Leaders from Coast to Coast,” we profile Representative Sharice Davids, a trailblazing Democrat representing the 3rd Congressional District of Kansas. One of the first two Native American women ever elected to Congress, Davids brings a unique and multifaceted background to Washington D.C., combining the tenacity of a professional mixed martial artist with the sharp intellect of an Ivy League-educated lawyer.

Raised by a single mother who served for 20 years as an Army drill sergeant, Sharice Davids learned the values of discipline and perseverance from a young age. As a proud member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, she has a deep connection to her heritage. Her educational journey is a testament to her drive, beginning at a local community college before she earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and, ultimately, a law degree from the prestigious Cornell Law School.

Before entering the political arena, Davids pursued a diverse career path. She competed as a professional mixed martial artist, worked as a lawyer, and dedicated herself to fostering economic development within Native American communities. A pivotal experience came when she was selected for the highly competitive White House Fellowship during the Obama administration, giving her invaluable insight into the workings of the federal government. This unique combination of grassroots advocacy, legal expertise, and high-level policy experience became the foundation for her successful 2018 campaign, where she flipped a long-held Republican seat.

In Congress, Representative Davids has carved out a reputation as a pragmatic and hardworking legislator. As a Co-Chair of the centrist New Democrat Coalition, she focuses on finding practical solutions to key issues affecting her suburban Kansas City district. Through her work on the influential House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Small Business Committee, she champions investment in local infrastructure, supports economic growth, and advocates for lowering healthcare and prescription drug costs for American families.

Beyond her legislative duties, Sharice Davids continues to inspire the next generation. She is the co-author of a children’s book, “Sharice’s Big Voice,” which tells her own remarkable story to encourage young people from all backgrounds to pursue their dreams and embrace public service.

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