Mark DeSaulnier

Where DeSaulnier stands

Topic headings are Vote Book’s; quoted words are each candidate’s own, with the source under each one. “As reported” items are a news outlet’s description, not an exact quote.

Energy & environment

Environment & clean air

What I’ve done: Served on the California Air Resources Board (1997–2006). Co-led the Industrial Safety Ordinance, which became a model for California and national refinery safety regulation. Authored the Clean Corridors Act, a $2.5 billion national EV charging program enacted in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Championed the Urban Limit Line to preserve farmland and open space in Contra Costa County.

Jobs, wages & cost of living

Jobs, workers, & the future of work

I’ve been on both sides of a paycheck. I know what it’s like to sign one and what it’s like to depend on one. Right now, AI and automation are changing jobs faster than Washington is reacting. That’s a problem. Workers, not just tech companies, deserve a voice in what comes next. In Washington, I am fighting against the reckless Republican agenda and advocating for the issues that matter most to California families.

Jobs, workers, & the future of work

What I’ve done: Created the Future of Work, Wages, and Labor initiative, producing over 30 concrete policy recommendations on preparing workers for an AI economy. Wrote a CEO tax bill, which has been adopted in Portland, OR, that taxes out of control CEO salaries at companies where workers aren’t being given their fair share. Authored the Justice for Dislocated Workers Act to protect workers from mass layoffs and plant closures.

Jobs, workers, & the future of work

What I’m doing: Ranking Member, House Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee. Pushing to ensure workers have a real voice as AI reshapes their industries. Fighting to protect the right to organize, safe workplaces, and wages that keep up with the cost of living.

Other priorities

Background and priorities

I didn’t get into public service to check boxes or climb a ladder. I got into it because I’ve lived the same pressures a lot of families are feeling right now. I believe the government should actually make your life easier, not harder.