Biography of Congressman Patrick J. Murphy

Congressman Patrick J. Murphy is an Iraq war veteran, former West Point professor, criminal prosecutor, and a family man. Born and raised in Northeast Philadelphia, his father was a Philadelphia police officer and his mother a career legal secretary. As the youngest of three, he learned at an early age that hard work, sacrifice, and focus will lead you to achieve your dreams. Patrick lives in Bristol with his wife, Jennifer, and Maggie, their newborn baby girl.

The Importance of Family

Congressman Murphy is a devoted husband, godfather, uncle, brother, friend, and son. His wife Jennifer, is a tax attorney born and raised in Lower Makefield. In 2006, their beautiful daughter Maggie was born. Congressman Murphy believes that when all is said and done, it's the relationship with your family that will stand the test of time. This is one of the reasons he believes good jobs, high-quality health care, and a safe environment are vital for the success of the American family.

Education and Early Career

Congressman Murphy started out his higher education at Bucks County Community College in 1991, then went on to King's College in Wilkes-Barre, PA and became a cadet in the Army ROTC program. Upon graduation he was commissioned as an officer with the rank of Second Lieutenant. Congressman Murphy then continued his studies at Widener University School of Law in Harrisburg, PA.

Iraq War Veteran

In 1993, Congressman Murphy put on his U.S. Army uniform for the first time. He went on to become a West Point professor, airborne and air assault qualified, a JAG Corps attorney, and serve two deployments after 9/11 - the first to Bosnia in 2002 and the second to Baghdad, Iraq in 2003-2004 as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division. For his service, Captain Murphy earned the Bronze Star for service and his unit earned the Presidential Unit Citation.

Election to Office

On Nov. 7th, 2006 Captain Murphy was elected to represent Pennsylvania's 8th Congressional District. Sworn into office on Jan. 4th, 2007, Congressman Murphy has pledged to serve his constituents with the same devotion, integrity, diligence and honor he has shown throughout his life. As his term in office has continued he has been selected to serve of the House Armed Services Committee and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. With his appointment to these prestigious committees, Congressman Murphy has become a leading voice for change in Iraq. Outside of these committees, as a member of the Blue Dog Coalition, he has been a strong proponent for fiscal responsibility and improved veterans benefits. To learn more about the work that Congressman Murphy has been doing to serve the 8th district, please visit the "Issue's and Legislation" section of this webpage.