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Kevin Mullin
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Kevin Mullin (born June 15, 1970) is an American politician serving as the U.S. representative for California's 15th congressional district since 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as a member of the California State Assembly from the 22nd district, which encompasses most of the San Francisco Peninsula region, from 2012 to 2022.
Key Information
Mullin is the son of Gene Mullin, who served three terms in the Assembly. Before being elected to the Assembly in 2012, he was an entrepreneur and served on the city council of South San Francisco, including one year as mayor. He served as speaker pro tempore of the Assembly from 2014 to 2022.
Early life and education
[edit]Mullin was born in Daly City, California, on June 15, 1970. He attended public and Catholic elementary schools before graduating from Junípero Serra High School in 1988. He received a bachelor's degree in communications from the University of San Francisco in 1992, and a master of public administration from San Francisco State University in 1998.[1] Additionally, Mullin completed an executive leadership program at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government in 2003.[2]
Early career
[edit]Business career
[edit]Before entering politics, Mullin was a local business owner and district director to then-state senator Jackie Speier. He also served as political director for his father, then-state assemblymember Gene Mullin.
As an entrepreneur, Mullin founded KM2 Communications, a multimedia production business in South San Francisco. He produced public affairs programming on local television and hosted various programs on Peninsula-TV Channel 26.
South San Francisco City Council
[edit]Mullin was elected to the South San Francisco City Council in 2007. He served one term on the council, including a one-year stint as mayor.
During his time on the council, Mullin also represented the cities of San Mateo County on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.[1]
California State Assembly
[edit]Mullin was first elected to the Assembly in 2012. He represented the 22nd district, which encompassed most of the San Francisco Peninsula.
During his first term in the Assembly, Mullin served as assistant speaker pro tempore. He became speaker pro tempore of the Assembly in 2014, a position he held until leaving office in 2022.[1] In this role, he regularly presided over Assembly floor sessions and continued as part of Anthony Rendon's leadership team.
Notable legislation from Mullin's tenure includes Proposition 19, which offered support for fire victims, disabled, and the elderly. This proportion narrowly passed.[3]
Mullin left office on December 5, 2022. He was succeeded by Diane Papan.[4]
U.S. House of Representatives
[edit]Elections
[edit]2022
[edit]Following Speier's retirement, Mullin announced his candidacy to succeed her in the 2022 election. He defeated San Mateo County supervisor David Canepa with 55.8% of the vote.[5] Mullin described himself as a pro-Israel lawmaker and AIPAC spent around 600k dollars for him in the general election against fellow Democrat David Canepa.[6]
Mullin was sworn into the House of Representatives on January 7, 2023, when the 118th Congress convened.
Committee assignments
[edit]For the 118th Congress:[7]
For the 119th Congress:[8]
Caucus memberships
[edit]- Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus[9]
- Congressional Equality Caucus[10]
- Congressional Freethought Caucus[11]
- Climate Solutions Caucus[12]
- Congressional Caucus for the Equal Rights Amendment[13]
- Black Maternal Health Caucus[14]
- Rare Disease Caucus[15]
Tenure
[edit]Mullin left a California hospital bed with IV attached on February 25, 2025, flying to Washington for an emergency vote against a budget resolution that same day. The resolution, favored by president Trump, was not certain to pass. At the request of the Democratic leadership several Democrats who were absent with medical issues were secretly brought to Washington for the vote. The resolution ultimately passed by the narrowest possible margin.[16][17]
Personal life
[edit]This section of a biography of a living person does not include any references or sources. (September 2025) |
Mullin is married to Jessica Stanfill Mullin, with whom he has twin sons. They live in South San Francisco.
Electoral history
[edit]| Year | Office | Party | Primary | General | Result | Swing | Ref. | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total | % | P. | Total | % | P. | |||||||||
| 2012 | State Assembly | 22nd | Democratic | 51,578 | 68.48% | 1st | 126,519 | 71.40% | 1st | Won | Hold | [18] | ||
| 2014 | 42,575 | 71.05% | 1st | 73,928 | 70.60% | 1st | Won | Hold | [19] | |||||
| 2016 | 85,682 | 76.21% | 1st | 148,289 | 74.39% | 1st | Won | Hold | [20] | |||||
| 2018 | 80,610 | 74.08% | 1st | 145,197 | 76.77% | 1st | Won | Hold | [21] | |||||
| 2020 | 107,738 | 75.72% | 1st | 182,365 | 75.40% | 1st | Won | Hold | [22] | |||||
| 2022 | U.S. House | 15th | 58,806 | 41.11% | 1st | 108,077 | 55.46% | 1st | Won | Hold | [23] | |||
| 2024 | 109,172 | 75.27% | 1st | 211,648 | 73.10% | 1st | Won | Hold | [24] | |||||
| Source: Secretary of State of California | Statewide Election Results | ||||||||||||||
References
[edit]- ^ a b c "Biography – Assemblymember Kevin Mullin Representing the 22nd California Assembly District". asmdc.org. Archived from the original on March 14, 2016. Retrieved January 7, 2016.
- ^ "Kevin Mullin – D California, 15th, Candidate – Biography | LegiStorm". legistorm.com. Retrieved November 11, 2022.
- ^ "California Proposition 19, Property Tax Transfers, Exemptions, and Revenue for Wildfire Agencies and Counties Amendment (2020)". ballotpedia.org Ballotpedia. 2023. Retrieved October 20, 2023.
- ^ "Peninsula Election Roundup: Kevin Mullin wins congressional seat, Diane Papan sweeps". The Mercury News. November 9, 2022. Retrieved November 11, 2022.
- ^ "Meet Kevin Mullin, Who Just Won Jackie Speier's Longtime Congressional Seat". SFist – San Francisco News, Restaurants, Events, & Sports. November 10, 2022. Archived from the original on November 11, 2022. Retrieved November 11, 2022.
- ^ Ilsley-Greene, Lillian (November 19, 2022). "How a pro-Israel super PAC helped a moderate Dem win Speier's seat". J. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Kevin Mullin". Clerk of the United States House of Representatives. Archived from the original on March 28, 2023. Retrieved April 24, 2023.
- ^ "Kevin Mullin". Clerk of the United States House of Representatives. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
- ^ "Members". Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus. May 2023. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ "About the CEC". CEC. April 4, 2025. Retrieved September 4, 2025.
- ^ "FFRF welcomes Rep. Mullin to the Congressional Freethought Caucus". Freedom From Religion Foundation. February 14, 2023. Retrieved May 5, 2023.
- ^ "About Climate Solutions Caucus". Climate Solutions Caucus. January 3, 2023. Retrieved November 6, 2024.
- ^ "Membership". Congressional Caucus for the Equal Rights Amendment. Retrieved September 18, 2024.
- ^ "Caucus Members". Black Maternal Health Caucus. June 15, 2023. Retrieved June 23, 2025.
- ^ "Rare Disease Congressional Caucus". Every Life Foundation for Rare Diseases. Retrieved December 17, 2024.
- ^ Lyttle, Melissa (February 26, 2025). "Bay Area congressman left hospital to vote against GOP budget". San Francisco Chronicle. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
- ^ Kornfield, Meryl (February 26, 2025). "House Democrats who were absent go to great lengths to vote against budget". Washington Post. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
- ^ Primary election:
- "Statement of Vote: June 5, 2012, Primary Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2012. p. 20. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- "Statement of Vote: November 6, 2012, General Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2012. p. 10. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- ^ Primary election:
- "Statement of Vote: June 3, 2014, Primary Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2014. p. 26. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- "Statement of Vote: November 4, 2014, General Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2014. p. 10. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- ^ Primary election:
- "Statement of Vote: June 7, 2016, Primary Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2016. p. 19. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- "Statement of Vote: November 8, 2016, General Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2016. p. 9. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- ^ Primary election:
- "Statement of Vote: June 5, 2018, Primary Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2018. p. 24. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- "Statement of Vote: November 6, 2018, General Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2018. p. 11. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- ^ Primary election:
- "Statement of Vote: March 3, 2020, Primary Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2020. p. 21. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- "Statement of Vote: November 3, 2020, General Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2020. p. 11. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- ^ Primary election:
- "Statement of Vote: June 7, 2022, Primary Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2022. p. 18. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- "Statement of Vote: November 8, 2022, General Election" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2022. p. 7. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- ^ Primary election:
- "Statement of Vote" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2024. p. 82. Archived (PDF) from the original on June 18, 2024. Retrieved January 7, 2025.
- "Statement of Vote" (PDF). sos.ca.gov. Sacramento: Secretary of State of California. 2024. p. 6. Archived (PDF) from the original on December 30, 2024. Retrieved January 7, 2025.
External links
[edit]- Congressman Kevin Mullin official U.S. House website
- Kevin Mullin for Congress campaign website
- Appearances on C-SPAN
Kevin Mullin
View on GrokipediaKevin Mullin (born June 15, 1970) is an American politician serving as the U.S. representative for California's 15th congressional district since 2023.[1] A member of the Democratic Party, he previously represented California's 22nd State Assembly district from 2012 to 2022, including as Speaker pro Tempore from 2014 onward.[1] Born in San Mateo County, California, Mullin graduated from Junipero Serra High School in 1988, earned a B.A. from the University of San Francisco in 1992, and obtained an M.P.A. from San Francisco State University in 1998.[1] He began his career as staff for California State Senator Jackie Speier from 1998 to 2001 and later owned a small communications business, working as a television host and commentator.[1][2] Mullin's elected service started at the local level as a South San Francisco city councilmember from 2007 to 2012 and mayor from 2010 to 2011, followed by a term as commissioner on the California Metropolitan Transportation Commission from 2011 to 2012.[1] In the State Assembly, he authored over 60 bills enacted into law, including the All-Vote-By-Mail legislation, the DISCLOSE Act, and the Social Media DISCLOSE Act, as well as securing a $3.7 billion climate resilience package and advancing Caltrain electrification.[2] Married with twin sons, Mullin emphasizes strengthening democracy, climate action, and economic opportunity in his congressional priorities.[2]
Early Life and Education
Family Background and Upbringing
Kevin Mullin was born on June 15, 1970, in San Mateo County, California, as a fourth-generation Californian raised in the South San Francisco area.[1][3] He is the son of Gene Mullin, a social studies and government teacher at South San Francisco High School for 32 years who founded the city's Youth in Government Day program and later pursued a political career as mayor of South San Francisco from 1995 to 2002 and California State Assemblymember for the 19th District from 2002 to 2008.[2][4][5] Mullin's mother, Terri Mullin, fostered an environment of intellectual engagement through lively dinner table discussions on public affairs, instilling in him an early appreciation for civic discourse alongside his father's emphasis on democratic participation.[2][6] As a high school senior, Mullin participated in the Youth in Government Day program initiated by his father, an experience that reinforced his formative exposure to legislative processes and public service in the working-class community of San Mateo County.[2]Academic and Formative Experiences
Mullin graduated from Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo, California, a Catholic all-boys preparatory school known for its emphasis on academic rigor and character development.[2][7] He subsequently earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications from the University of San Francisco, a Jesuit institution where his studies focused on media, public relations, and interpersonal dynamics, laying groundwork for his later involvement in community outreach and political communication.[2][8] Mullin pursued graduate education at San Francisco State University, completing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from 1996 to 1998, which equipped him with skills in policy analysis, governance, and public sector management relevant to his subsequent civic roles.[2][8] In 2003, he participated in the Executive Leadership Program at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government, earning a certificate that enhanced his expertise in executive decision-making and public leadership through case-based training.[8][9]Pre-Political Career
Business Ventures
Prior to entering local politics, Kevin Mullin founded and owned KM2 Communications, a multimedia production company based in South San Francisco, California.[10][11] The firm specialized in full-service video production, including documentaries and public service announcements.[8] Mullin operated the business from 2005 to 2012, leveraging his bachelor's degree in communications from the University of San Francisco to build expertise in media content creation.[12][10] KM2 Communications received recognition as an award-winning entity, focusing on multimedia services tailored to local and regional needs in the San Francisco Bay Area.[8] During this period, Mullin produced various projects that highlighted community issues, though specific client details or revenue figures are not publicly detailed in available records.[8] The venture positioned Mullin as a small business owner in the competitive communications sector, contributing to his understanding of economic challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley-adjacent regions.[3] No other major business enterprises are associated with Mullin prior to his political roles.[10]Community and Civic Engagement
Prior to his election to the South San Francisco City Council in 2007, Kevin Mullin engaged in civic activities focused on workforce development as a member of the San Mateo County Workforce Investment Board (WIB). In this role, he contributed to efforts aimed at enhancing local employment training and economic opportunities in the region.[13][14] Mullin's involvement with the WIB aligned with his background as a small business owner, emphasizing practical approaches to job placement and skill-building programs for San Mateo County residents. This service preceded his formal political positions and reflected early community-oriented work outside elected capacities.[15][12]Local and State Political Career
South San Francisco City Council and Mayoral Service
Mullin was elected to the South San Francisco City Council in November 2007.[2] He served a single term from December 2007 to December 2012.[8] [12] During this tenure, the council managed local priorities including economic development, housing programs, and annual operating budgets amid the post-2008 recession recovery.[16] In 2011, Mullin served as mayor of South San Francisco for one year, a rotating position among councilmembers under the city's charter.[2] [8] As mayor, he presided over council meetings and represented the city in ceremonial and policy roles, including participation in the city's Youth in Government Day program to foster civic education among students.[2] Mullin's council service concluded in 2012 when he successfully campaigned for a seat in the California State Assembly, District 22.[8] No major controversies or standout legislative actions from his municipal tenure are documented in public records.[11]California State Assembly Tenure
Mullin was elected to the California State Assembly in November 2012, representing the 22nd Assembly District encompassing portions of San Mateo County, including South San Francisco, Daly City, and San Bruno.[2] He assumed office in December 2012 and served continuously through 2022, securing reelection in 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2020.[2] During his tenure, Mullin focused on issues pertinent to his coastal district, such as transportation infrastructure, housing affordability, and environmental protection, reflecting the region's reliance on tech, biotech, and commuting patterns to Silicon Valley.[2] In 2014, Mullin was appointed Speaker pro Tempore by Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins, a leadership position he held for the remainder of his Assembly service until 2022, assisting in managing the chamber's operations and advancing the Democratic supermajority's agenda.[2] [17] As a senior member, he chaired the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Resources and chaired committees on Elections and Redistricting, influencing fiscal allocations for natural resources and electoral reforms.[8] Mullin authored and co-authored legislation addressing campaign finance transparency and voting access. In 2017, he co-authored Assembly Bill 249, the California Disclose Act, which mandates disclosure of top donors funding political ads, signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown to enhance voter awareness of funding sources amid rising independent expenditures.[18] He advocated for expanded vote-by-mail systems in San Mateo County prior to widespread adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic, authoring measures to streamline mail ballot processing and increase participation.[3] Additionally, Mullin championed climate-related bills, including those promoting renewable energy incentives and coastal resilience projects, aligning with California's emissions reduction goals.[9] Several of his 2017 bills were signed into law, covering topics from professional licensing reforms to local government efficiencies.[19] His record emphasized pragmatic, district-specific solutions over partisan flashpoints, contributing to San Mateo County's economic growth amid housing shortages and transit demands.[2]U.S. House of Representatives
2022 Congressional Election
Mullin's candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives emerged in the race for California's 15th congressional district, an open seat following the retirement of incumbent Democrat Jackie Speier, who had represented the area since 2008. As Speaker pro Tempore of the California State Assembly, Mullin positioned himself as a progressive Democrat emphasizing economic opportunity, environmental protection, and democracy reform in the district encompassing parts of San Mateo and San Francisco counties.[20] The June 7, 2022, top-two primary featured a crowded field of primarily Democratic candidates under California's nonpartisan blanket primary system. Mullin secured first place with 58,779 votes (41.1 percent), advancing to the general election alongside San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa, who received 34,451 votes (24.1 percent).[21] Other notable contenders included Republican Gus Mattammal with 23,608 votes (16.5 percent) and Democrat E. Rosie Rivera with 9,301 votes (6.5 percent).[21]| Candidate | Party | Votes | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kevin Mullin | Democratic | 58,779 | 41.1% |
| David Canepa | Democratic | 34,451 | 24.1% |
| Gus Mattammal | Republican | 23,608 | 16.5% |
| E. Rosie Rivera | Democratic | 9,301 | 6.5% |
| Total | 142,955 | 100% |
| Candidate | Party | Votes | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kevin Mullin | Democratic | 108,419 | 56.0% |
| David Canepa | Democratic | 85,331 | 44.0% |
| Total | 193,750 | 100% |
Committee Assignments and Caucus Involvement
In the 118th Congress (2023–2025), Mullin served on the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, focusing on issues such as environmental management, public lands, research funding, and technological innovation.[24] He also participated in the Joint Economic Committee, which examines economic policy and forecasts national conditions.[23] For the 119th Congress (2025–2027), Mullin transitioned to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, a panel with jurisdiction over health, energy policy, telecommunications, and consumer protection.[25] Within this committee, he holds seats on the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade; the Subcommittee on Energy; and the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, enabling oversight of regulatory matters, energy production, and industry practices.[25] This assignment aligns with his prior advocacy for climate resilience and economic development in California.[25] Mullin maintains active involvement in over 70 informal caucuses and commissions, spanning bipartisan policy groups on climate, health, human rights, and family issues.[25] Notable memberships include the Congressional Progressive Caucus, which advances left-leaning priorities like expanded social programs; the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, addressing global abuses; the Congressional Armenian Caucus, focused on genocide recognition and regional stability; the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus, promoting bilateral ties; and the Congressional Dads Caucus, advocating for parental leave and family support policies.[25][26][27] Other key groups encompass the Bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus, the Congressional Biomedical Research Caucus, and the New Democrat Coalition, reflecting his emphasis on pragmatic, evidence-based approaches to environmental, technological, and economic challenges.[25]Legislative Record and Key Initiatives
Mullin has sponsored 23 bills and cosponsored 921 others during the 118th and 119th Congresses, focusing primarily on transportation infrastructure, environmental resilience, clean energy innovation, and housing affordability.[23] Many of his initiatives address regional priorities in California's Peninsula, such as rail safety, grid modernization, and climate adaptation, often through targeted studies, pilot programs, and funding requests rather than sweeping overhauls. Few of his sponsored bills have advanced beyond committee referral, reflecting the challenges for junior members in a divided Congress, though he has secured provisions in broader reauthorization laws.[23] In transportation policy, Mullin introduced the SAFE CROSS Act (H.R. 3647) on May 29, 2025, directing the Department of Transportation to study AI-enabled sensors for enhancing rail crossing safety amid 2,252 collisions reported in 2024.[28] He also led eight bills in June 2025 for the Surface Transportation Reauthorization, including the Empty Lots to Housing Act to repurpose federal highway land for transit-oriented affordable housing without additional spending; the Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act for a DOT study on vehicle technologies' impact on pedestrian fatalities; the Forging Ahead on Rail Electrification (FARE) Act to form an advisory committee on electrification barriers, citing Caltrain's model; and the Battery and Regenerative Braking Act to expand grants for energy-efficient commuter rail.[29] Additional measures targeted language access and real-time captioning for transit users with limited English proficiency or hearing impairments, as well as co-locating high-voltage transmission lines in rail corridors. In the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, Mullin incorporated two provisions advancing hydrogen aviation research and development.[30] On environmental and climate fronts, Mullin sponsored the Weatherization Resilience and Adaptation Program (WRAP) Act (H.R. 5650), introduced October 10, 2025, to establish programs mitigating climate impacts on buildings.[31] For FY2026 appropriations, he advocated bipartisan increases such as $42 million for NIH environmental health research on pollutants like PFAS and microplastics; $2 million for USGS groundwater rise forecasting; enhanced NOAA funding for marine carbon dioxide removal R&D and the Digital Coast Program for coastal GIS planning; and at least $40 million for military next-generation solar demonstrations.[32] He also pushed DOE efforts to standardize grid communications for solar and wind integration, addressing multi-year interconnection delays, and supported programs reducing transmission upgrade costs through smart device protocols.[32] Other initiatives include the Poverty Line Act to refine federal poverty metrics; the Filipino Veterans Fairness Act for benefits equity; and the Serious Noise Reduction Efforts (SNORE) Act targeting aviation noise pollution, all introduced in the 118th Congress.[33] Mullin's work emphasizes practical, incremental reforms, with cosponsorships extending to over 1,300 measures on constituent services like disaster response and veterans' affairs, contributing to $2.2 million in casework returns by mid-2025.[34]Voting Record on Major Issues
Mullin has consistently voted in support of increasing or suspending the federal debt limit and opposing associated spending cuts proposed by Republicans. On May 31, 2023, he voted yea on the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (H.R. 3746), a bipartisan deal that suspended the debt ceiling until January 2025 while capping certain discretionary spending increases.[35] He opposed the Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023 (H.R. 2811) on April 26, 2023, which tied a debt ceiling increase to significant budget cuts and work requirements for social programs, voting nay as it passed 217-215.[13] Similarly, on September 18, 2024, he voted yea on the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 (H.R. 5371), extending government funding amid debt limit concerns.[36] On national security and foreign affairs, Mullin supported enhanced defense spending and aid to allies. He voted yea on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (H.R. 2670) on December 14, 2023, authorizing $886 billion in military funding.[13] Regarding Ukraine, he voted yea on April 20, 2024, for the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024 (H.R. 8035), providing $60.8 billion in aid including weapons and economic support.[37] [38] This aligned with his signing of a March 22, 2024, discharge petition to force House consideration of Ukraine aid alongside Gaza humanitarian assistance.[39] Mullin opposed stringent Republican-led immigration enforcement measures. He voted nay on the Secure the Border Act of 2023 (H.R. 2), which aimed to resume border wall construction, limit asylum claims, and increase deportations.[40] On border security bills like the Stop Illegal Entry Act (H.R. 3486), he voted nay, reflecting Democratic priorities favoring pathways for certain migrants over expansive restrictions.[41] On social issues, Mullin has backed measures expanding abortion access and gun regulations. As a cosponsor of the Women's Health Protection Act, he supports codifying Roe v. Wade protections, voting in line with pro-choice positions on related appropriations.[42] He advocates reinstating the assault weapons ban and enhancing background checks, consistent with yea votes on Democratic gun safety bills, though specific roll calls like the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act supplemental funding aligned with his stated support for keeping firearms from violent offenders.[43] His Heritage Action score of 5% in the 118th Congress indicates near-total opposition to conservative priorities across these domains.[40]Controversies and Criticisms
Mullin has not been implicated in personal ethics violations or financial scandals during his tenure in Congress or prior state service, distinguishing him from several contemporaries facing investigations into stock trading or improper conduct.[23] However, he has faced political criticism from progressive activists over his support for U.S. military aid to Israel amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. In April 2024, Mullin voted for a $95 billion foreign aid package that allocated $26.4 billion in assistance to Israel, including funding for defensive systems like Iron Dome, which critics contended prolonged operations in Gaza resulting in high civilian casualties. Progressive groups, including those organizing petitions, accused him of prioritizing Israeli security over humanitarian concerns in Gaza, despite Mullin's public statements expressing worry for Palestinian civilians and endorsing a ceasefire framework.[44] Such criticisms often highlight Mullin's acceptance of contributions from pro-Israel political action committees, totaling approximately $11,900 in the 2022 cycle according to campaign finance trackers, though these donations represent a small fraction of his overall fundraising from diverse sources including labor unions and tech industry donors.[45] Mullin has defended his positions by emphasizing Israel's right to self-defense following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks that killed over 1,200 Israelis, while advocating for diplomatic resolutions to the conflict. On domestic matters, local opinion pieces in San Mateo County publications have critiqued Mullin's partisan rhetoric, with one 2025 letter to the editor faulting an op-ed by Mullin for unfairly portraying Republican policies as extremist and exacerbating national divisions rather than promoting bipartisanship.[46] Another correspondence urged Mullin to adopt a more confrontational stance against Republican-led initiatives, reflecting frustration among some Democratic constituents over perceived insufficient aggression in opposing measures like budget cuts to social programs.[47] These localized rebukes underscore tensions within his moderate Democratic base but have not escalated to formal challenges or widespread media scrutiny.Political Positions
Economic and Fiscal Policies
Kevin Mullin advocates for a progressive tax code that maintains low costs for working families while requiring large corporations and the wealthiest individuals to pay what he describes as their fair share.[48] This stance aligns with his broader emphasis on economic equity, including support for measures to expand the Child Tax Credit permanently and fund childcare programs to alleviate financial pressures on families.[48] He has cosponsored legislation such as the Improving Diapers Affordability Act and the Child Care for Every Community Act to address specific household expenses.[48] On government spending, Mullin endorses federal investments as a tool for economic growth, including backing the Biden administration's Lowering Costs Agenda to reduce burdens on seniors, families, and low-income communities.[48] He has introduced the Poverty Line Act to modernize federal poverty calculations, arguing that outdated metrics fail to reflect current living costs and hinder effective aid distribution.[49] Mullin supports pro-labor policies and small business initiatives, having secured federal funding for community projects like $1 million for early learning centers in his district.[48] Regarding fiscal restraint, Mullin has opposed Republican-led budget proposals, such as a July 2025 measure he criticized for adding $4 trillion to the national debt and risking inflation, while prioritizing tax cuts over support for working families.[50] He has also condemned House Republican budgets for increasing everyday expenses amid inflation, without expressing equivalent opposition to Democratic spending packages that expand social programs.[51] His positions reflect a preference for targeted government intervention over broad austerity, consistent with his affirmative response in surveys to using federal spending, such as grants and tax incentives, to promote growth.[52]National Security and Foreign Affairs
Mullin has emphasized a U.S. foreign policy centered on defending democratic allies, promoting human rights, and providing humanitarian and developmental aid, while participating in several congressional caucuses focused on international relations. He serves on the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission and is a member of the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus, Congressional Armenian Caucus, U.S.-Japan Caucus, and Friends of Ireland Caucus.[27] These affiliations reflect his advocacy for strengthening ties with Indo-Pacific partners and supporting human rights in regions including Armenia and the Philippines.[27] In national security matters, Mullin voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (H.R. 2670), which passed the House 219-210 on July 14, 2023, authorizing defense spending and policy priorities.[53] He offered amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act in September 2025, aiming to address specific defense priorities, though details on the amendments' content and outcomes were not specified in public announcements.[54] On April 20, 2024, he supported a bipartisan foreign aid package providing assistance to Ukraine against Russian aggression, Israel amid conflicts in the Middle East, and Taiwan and Indo-Pacific allies to counter Chinese influence, stating it "prioritizes America's national security interests and offers crucial support for our democratic allies abroad."[37] This legislation ensured strategic resources for Taiwan to deter potential aggression from China.[37] Regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, Mullin expressed support for a ceasefire deal on October 9, 2025, stating, "I wholeheartedly support the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, and urge all parties to abide by its terms," highlighting the need to end hostilities in Gaza.[55] He has also advocated for repealing the 2002 and 1991 Authorizations for Use of Military Force to restore congressional oversight of war powers and cosponsored H.R. 77 to prioritize U.S. engagement with the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, signaling a preference for diplomatic arms control measures.[27] Mullin supports increased funding for programs like the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and USAID initiatives for LGBTQI+ protections abroad, framing such aid as a moral imperative tied to U.S. leadership.[27]Social and Environmental Issues
Mullin supports abortion rights, stating that women have a right to choose and opposing restrictions on reproductive health care. He is a cosponsor of the Women's Health Protection Act to restore and protect access to abortion nationwide and the EACH Act to repeal the Hyde Amendment, which limits federal funding for abortions. In the California State Assembly, he co-authored legislation protecting women from prosecution related to pregnancy outcomes and championed amendments enshrining reproductive rights in state law.[42][56] On gun policy, Mullin advocates reinstating the federal assault weapons ban, enhancing firearm safety standards, and prohibiting violent offenders from possessing guns. He serves on the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and cosponsored bills including H.R. 698 to ban semiautomatic assault weapons and large-capacity magazines, H.R. 715 for universal background checks on firearm sales and transfers, and Ethan's Law to mandate secure storage of firearms with liability for improper handling. He signed discharge petitions to force House votes on these measures.[43][57][58] Mullin backs LGBTQ rights through membership in the Congressional Equality Caucus and endorsements from Equality California. He opposed the House-passed National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2024, citing its provisions that restrict medical care access for transgender military personnel.[59][60] Mullin prioritizes addressing climate change, highlighting its effects such as sea-level rise and extreme weather, and supports a whole-of-government approach including limits on carbon emissions from fossil fuel power plants. He introduced the Weatherization Resilience and Adaptation Program (WRAP) Act to fund climate-resilient home upgrades for low-income households and cosponsored related measures. As a member of the Bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus and the House Natural Resources Committee, he advocates protecting public lands, wildlife, and species at risk of endangerment while opposing deregulation of environmental standards. Mullin supports elements of the Green New Deal and secured over $5 million in federal funding for local climate adaptation projects, including flood mitigation and habitat restoration in his district.[61][62]Personal Life
Family and Personal Interests
Mullin is married to Jessica Mullin, who maintains a career in public service.[63] The couple has twin sons, Liam and Landon.[2] Mullin and his family reside in the San Francisco Bay Area, where they engage in outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and biking on local trails.[2] He has described fatherhood as the most rewarding aspect of his life, noting challenges overcome to parent his sons while balancing congressional duties with family support.[63]Public Persona and Ethical Considerations
Mullin maintains a public image as a dedicated family man and community-oriented politician, often highlighting his roles as a father of twins, husband, and former small business owner alongside his prior service as a mobile DJ.[64][2] His persona emphasizes accessibility and commitment to constituents in California's 15th district, exemplified by actions such as flying from a California hospital to Washington, D.C., on March 4, 2025, with an IV attached to vote against a Republican budget resolution amid post-surgical complications.[65] This dedication has garnered praise from supporters for prioritizing legislative duties.[66] In terms of ethical considerations, Mullin has faced no formal investigations or substantiated complaints from the House Office of Congressional Ethics or the House Ethics Committee as of October 2025.[67] His financial disclosure reports, filed annually including the 2023 report on May 14, 2024, comply with House requirements without noted discrepancies or conflicts.[68] Mullin has supported reforms addressing financial conflicts, co-sponsoring the DEPOSIT Act on March 16, 2023, to recoup executive bonuses and stock sales from failed banks, signaling opposition to insider advantages in finance.[69] While some critics, including pro-Palestinian activists, have questioned his receipt of campaign contributions from pro-Israel PACs totaling $11,900 in 2022 and $23,650 from individuals, these do not constitute ethical violations under congressional rules but reflect standard political fundraising.[70] Mullin's affiliation with the Congressional Freethought Caucus since February 2023 underscores a secular ethical framework, providing a platform for discussing non-religious moral values among members.[71] Absent major scandals, his record aligns with routine congressional disclosures, though ongoing debates over member stock trading in general—unimplicated in his case—highlight broader institutional scrutiny.[23]Electoral History
State and Local Elections
Mullin began his elected career at the local level with his victory in the 2007 election for South San Francisco City Council, where he served from 2007 to 2012.[2][11] During this period, he was selected by fellow council members to serve as mayor in 2011.[2][11] Specific vote totals from the 2007 council election are not publicly detailed in available records, but his tenure focused on local issues in the San Mateo County city. He was reelected to the council in 2011 prior to transitioning to higher office.[72] Mullin advanced to state office in 2012, winning election to the California State Assembly for the 22nd District, which encompassed parts of San Mateo and San Francisco counties. Running unopposed in the primary, he defeated Republican Mark Gilham in the general election with 71.4% of the vote (126,519 votes to Gilham's 50,684).[13] He was reelected in subsequent cycles with consistently strong margins, facing primarily Republican challengers in a heavily Democratic district:| Year | Primary Result | General Election Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Mullin (D): 71% (42,575 votes); Gilham (R): 15.1%; Madison (R): 13.8% | Mullin: 70.6% (73,940 votes) vs. Gilham: 29.4% |
| 2016 | Mullin: 76.21% (85,682 votes); Kiesel (R): 13.34%; Gilham (R): 10.45% | Mullin: 74.39% (148,289 votes) vs. Kiesel: 25.61% |
| 2018 | Mullin: 74.1% (80,610 votes); Laskowski (R): 22.2%; Duffy (R): 3.8% | Mullin: 76.8% (145,197 votes) vs. Laskowski: 23.2% |
| 2020 | Mullin: 75.7% (107,738 votes); Gilham (R): 12.6%; Mahoney (R): 11.7% | Mullin: 75.4% (182,419 votes) vs. Gilham: 24.6% |
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