Elected in 1986 to represent Western New York in the United States House of Representatives, Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter (D-NY-28) is the Chairwoman of the influential Committee on Rules, making her the first woman in history to serve in that role.  A member of the House Democratic Leadership, she also serves on the prestigious Democratic Steering & Policy Committee.

Congresswoman Slaughter holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology and a Master of Science degree in Public Health from the University of Kentucky.  Prior to entering Congress, she served in the New York State Assembly (1982-86) and Monroe County Legislature (1976-79).

A native of Harlan County, Kentucky, Congresswoman Slaughter has lived most of her life in Rochester, New York's suburb of Fairport.  She is married to Robert Slaughter and together they have three daughters and seven grandchildren.