A native of California, Rep. Rohrabacher graduated from Palos Verdes High School, obtained his bachelor’s degree from California State University Long Beach, and his master’s degree in American Studies from the University of Southern California. In the 1970s, he worked as a journalist covering major stories for City New Service and Radio News West, and as an editorial writer for the Orange County Register.
Following his career in journalism, Rep. Rohrabacher joined President Reagan’s campaign as an Assistant Press Secretary and following Reagan’s victory, served him as a senior speechwriter and special assistant. In 1988, he left the White House to run for a seat in the House of Representatives and was elected to the 101st Congress.
Mr. Rohrabacher, currently serving his 15th term, represents the 48th District of California. His district encompasses much of the Pacific coastline of Orange County, including Seal Beach, Sunset Beach, Surfside, Corona del Mar, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Aliso Viejo, Newport Coast, Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel, and Fountain Valley. The district also includes portions of Midway City, Westminster, Santa Ana, and Garden Grove.
Congressman Rohrabacher is a member of the House Committees on Science, Space, and Technology and Foreign Affairs, and chairs the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats. In his capacity on those committees, he has been a fierce advocate for human rights and a fervent supporter of our nation’s space programs. Among his top legislative priorities are protection of small inventors from theft of their intellectual property and implementation of states’ rights in marijuana policy. He believes that states, not the federal government, should make decisions regarding the criminalization of marijuana use.
Congressman Rohrabacher lives in Costa Mesa, California with his wife of twenty years, Rhonda, and their three children. He is honored to represent you in Congress.
Committee Assignments
Congressman Rohrabacher serves as Chairman of the Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats Subcommittee of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and is a senior member of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology. Click here to learn more.