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Tenure

2013 - Present

Term ends

2023

Years in position

Predecessor

Charles A. Gonzalez

Texas House of Representatives

Joaquin Castro (Democratic Party) is a member of the U.S. House, representing Texas' 20th Congressional District. He assumed office on January 3, 2013. His current term ends on January 3, 2023.

Castro (Democratic Party) ran for re-election to the U.S. House to represent Texas' 20th Congressional District. He won in the general election on November 3, 2020.

Castro began his political career in the Texas House of Representatives, where he represented District 125 from 2003 to 2013.

Based on analysis of multiple outside rankings, Castro is an average Democratic member of Congress, meaning he will vote with the Democratic Party on the majority of bills.

1 Biography
2 Career
3 Committee assignments
- 3.1 U.S. House
- 3.2 Texas House
  - 3.2.1 2011-2012
  - 3.2.2 2009-2010
4 Key votes
5 Issues
- 5.1 Sponsored legislation
6 Elections
- 6.1 2020
- 6.2 2018
- 6.3 2016
- 6.4 2014
- 6.5 2012
- 6.6 2010
- 6.7 2008
7 Campaign themes
- 7.1 2020
8 Presidential preference
- 8.1 2020
- 8.2 2016
9 Campaign donors
10 Personal Gain Index
- 10.1 PGI: Change in net worth
- 10.2 PGI: Donation Concentration Metric
11 Analysis
12 See also
13 External links
14 Footnotes

Biography[edit]

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Castro is an attorney and visiting professor at Saint Mary's University School of Law. He earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School and B.A. from Stanford University.^[1]

Career[edit]

Below is an abbreviated outline of Castro's academic, professional, and political career:^[2]

2013-present: U.S. Representative from Texas' 20th Congressional District
2000-present: Practicing lawyer
2002-2012: Texas House of Representatives
2000: Graduated from Harvard University with a J.D.
1996: Graduated from Stanford University with a B.A.

Committee assignments[edit]

U.S. House[edit]

2021-2022

Castro was assigned to the following committees:^[Source]

2019-2020

Castro was assigned to the following committees:^[Source]

2017-2018[edit]

At the beginning of the 115th Congress, Castro was assigned to the following committees:^[3]

2015-2016[edit]

Castro served on the following committees:^[4]

2013-2014[edit]

Castro served on the following committees:^[5]

Committee on Foreign Affairs
- Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation and Trade
Committee on Armed Services
- Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces
- Subcommittee on Intelligence, Emerging Threats and Capabilities

Texas House[edit]

2011-2012[edit]

Joaquin Castro served on the following Texas House of Representatives committees:

Higher Education Committee Vice Chair
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

2009-2010[edit]

County Affairs Committee, Texas House
Higher Education Committee, Texas House (Vice Chair)

Key votes[edit]

See also: Key votes

Ballotpedia monitors legislation that receives a vote and highlights the ones that we consider to be key to understanding where elected officials stand on the issues. To read more about how we identify key votes, click here.

Key votes: 116th Congress, 2019-2020[edit]

Key votes: Previous sessions of Congress[edit]

Key votes (click "show" to expand or "hide" to contract)
Key votes: 115th Congress, 2017-2018[edit] For detailed information about each vote, click here. Votes on domestic policy (click to expand) Voted Yea on: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (Conference report) (HR 2) Bill Passed (369-47) on December 12, 2018 Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance through fiscal year 2023.^[6] Voted Nay on: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2 (second vote)) Bill Passed (213-211) on June 21, 2018 Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance. It also proposed modifying the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously known as the food stamp program.^[7] Voted Nay on: Securing America’s Future Act of 2018 (HR 4760) Bill Failed (193-231) on June 21, 2018 Proposed funding a border wall, limiting legal immigration, a mandatory worker verification program, allowing DACA recipients to apply for legal status, and preventing separation of families at the border.^[8] Voted Yea on: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2) Bill Passed (369-47) on December 12, 2018 Reauthorizes through FY2023 and modifies some Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs.^[9] Voted Nay on: Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (HR 36) Bill Passed (237-189) on October 3, 2017 Proposed amending the federal criminal code to make it a crime for any person to perform or attempt to perform an abortion if the probable post-fertilization age of the fetus was 20 weeks or more. The bill provided exceptions for an abortion: (1) that was necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman, or (2) when the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.^[10] Voted Nay on: Kate's Law (HR 3004) Bill Passed (257-167) on June 29, 2017 Proposed increasing criminal penalties for individuals in the country illegally who were convicted of certain crimes, deported, and then re-entered the U.S. illegally.^[11] Voted Nay on: No Sanctuary for Criminals Act (HR 3003) Bill Passed (228-195) on June 29, 2017 Proposed withholding federal funds from states and localities that chose not to follow federal immigration laws.^[12] Voted Nay on: American Health Care Act of 2017 (HR 1628) Bill passed (217-213) on May 4, 2017 Proposed modifying the budgetary and fiscal provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.^[13] Votes on economic affairs and regulations (click to expand) Voted Yea on: Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 (Conference report) (HR 6157) Bill Passed (361-61) on September 26, 2018 Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.^[14] Voted Yea on: Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019 (Conference report) (HR 5895) Bill Passed (377-20) on September 13, 2018 Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.^[15] Voted Yea on: Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 (HR 6157) Bill Passed (359-49) on June 28, 2018 Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.^[16] Voted Nay on: Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 (HR 5895) Bill Passed (235-179) on June 8, 2018 Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.^[17] Voted Nay on: Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (S 2155) Bill Passed (258-159) on May 22, 2018 Proposed exempting some banks from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act^[18] Voted Nay on: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1625) Bill Passed (256-167) on March 22, 2018 Proposed providing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes.^[19] Voted Nay on: The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 (HR 1892) Bill Passed (240-186) on February 9, 2018 Proposed providing appropriations through March 23, 2018.^[20] Voted Nay on: Further Extension Of Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1892) Bill Passed (245-182) on February 6, 2018 Proposed providing appropriations through March 23, 2018.^[21] Voted Nay on: Making further continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. (HR 195) Bill Passed (266-150) on January 22, 2018 Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 8, 2018.^[22] Voted Nay on: Making further continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. (HR 195) Bill Passed (230-197) on January 18, 2018 Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 16, 2018.^[23] Voted Nay on: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1370) Bill Passed (231-188) on December 21, 2017 Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through January 19, 2018.^[24] Voted Nay on: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1) Bill Passed (227-203) on December 19, 2017 Proposed providing for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018.^[25] Voted Nay on: Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes (HJ Res 123) Bill Passed (235-193) on December 7, 2017 Proposed funding the government until December 22, 2017.^[26] Voted Nay on: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1) Bill Passed (227-205) on November 16, 2017 Proposed amending the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses.^[27] Voted Nay on: Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71) Bill Passed (216-212) on October 26, 2017 Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2018 and setting forth budgetary levels for FY2019-FY2027. (This bill proposed adopting the Senate's budget resolution.)^[28] Voted Nay on: Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71) Bill Passed (219-206) on October 5, 2017 Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2018 and setting forth budgetary levels for FY2019-FY2027.^[29] Voted Nay on: Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 3354) Bill Passed (211-198) on September 14, 2017 Proposed providing FY2018 appropriations for the federal government. It combined 12 appropriations bills.^[30] Voted Yea on: Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (Included amendments to suspend the debt ceiling and fund the government) (HR 601) Bill Passed (316-90) on September 8, 2017 Proposed suspending the debt ceiling and funding the government until December 8, 2017, and providing funding for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts.^[31] Voted Yea on: Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (HR 601) Bill Passed (419-3) on September 6, 2017 Proposed providing $7.85 billion for disaster relief requirements, including response and recovery efforts from Hurricane Harvey.^[32] Voted Nay on: Financial CHOICE Act of 2017 (HR 10) Bill passed (233-186) on June 8, 2017 Proposed amending the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, among other acts.^[33] Voted Nay on: Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 (HR 244) Bill passed (309-118) on May 3, 2017 Proposed a $1.2 trillion budget to fund the government through the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2017.^[34] Votes on foreign policy and national security issues (click to expand) Voted Yea on: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (HR 5515) Bill Passed (351-66) on May 24, 2018 Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities^[35] Voted Nay on: Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 695) Bill Passed (250-166) on January 30, 2018 Proposed providing appropriations for military functions administered by the Department of Defense and for other purposes, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018.^[36] Voted Yea on: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018—Conference report (HR 2810) Bill Passed (356-70) on November 14, 2017 Proposed authorizing FY2018 appropriations and setting forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths.^[37] Voted Nay on: Make America Secure Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 3219) Bill Passed (235-192) on July 27, 2017 Proposed making appropriations for defense, military construction, Veterans Affairs, the Legislative Branch, energy and water development, and for other purposes for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2018.^[38] Voted Yea on: Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (HR 3364) Bill Passed (419-3) on July 25, 2017 Proposed providing congressional review and measures to counter aggression by the governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes.^[39] Voted Yea on: Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 3180, second vote) Bill Passed (380-35) on July 28, 2017 Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.^[40] Voted Nay on: Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 3180) Bill Failed (241-163) on July 24, 2017 Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.^[41] Voted Yea on: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 2810) Bill Passed (344-81) on July 14, 2017 Proposed authorizing fiscal year 2018 appropriations and setting forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It did not provide budget authority.^[42] Voted Yea on: Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2017 (HR 1301) Bill passed (371-48) on March 8, 2017 The $577.9 billion fiscal year 2017 defense spending bill proposed $516.1 billion in base budget funding and $61.8 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations/ Global War on Terrorism funding.^[43] 114th Congress[edit] The first session of the 114th Congress enacted into law six out of the 2,616 introduced bills (0.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 1.3 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the first session. In the second session, the 114th Congress enacted 133 out of 3,159 introduced bills (4.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 7.0 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[44]^[45] For more information pertaining to Castro's voting record in the 114th Congress, please see the below sections.^[46] Economic and fiscal[edit] Trade Act of 2015[edit] See also: The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, 2015 Trade adjustment assistance On June 12, 2015, the House rejected the trade adjustment assistance (TAA) measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015—by a vote of 126-302. Trade adjustment assistance (TAA) is a federal program providing American workers displaced by foreign trade agreements with job training and services. The measure was packaged with trade promotion authority (TPA), also known as fast-track authority. TPA is a legislative procedure that allows Congress to define "U.S. negotiating objectives and spells out a detailed oversight and consultation process for during trade negotiations. Under TPA, Congress retains the authority to review and decide whether any proposed U.S. trade agreement will be implemented," according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Castro was one of 144 Democrats to vote against the bill.^[47]^[48] Trade promotion authority On June 12, 2015, the House passed the trade promotion authority (TPA) measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015 —by a vote of 219-211. TPA gives the president fast-track authority to negotiate trade agreements sent to Congress without the opportunity for amendment or filibuster. Although the House approved TPA, it was a largely symbolic vote given the measure was part of a package trade bill including trade adjustment assistance (TAA), which was rejected earlier the same day. Castro was one of 157 Democrats to vote against the measure.^[49]^[50] Trade promotion authority second vote After the trade adjustment assistance (TAA) and trade promotion authority (TPA) did not pass the House together on June 12, 2015, representatives voted to authorize TPA alone as an amendment to HR 2146—the Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act—on June 18, 2015. The amendment passed by a vote of 218-208, with all voting members of the House maintaining his or her original position on TPA except for Ted Yoho (R-Fla.). Castro was one of 158 Democrats to vote against the amendment.^[51]^[52] Trade adjustment assistance second vote The House passed HR 1295—the Trade Preferences Extension Act of 2015—on June 25, 2015, by a vote of 286-138. The Senate packaged trade adjustment assistance (TAA) in this bill after the House rejected the TAA measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015. Along with trade promotion authority (TPA), which Congress passed as part of HR 2146—the Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act—TAA became law on June 29, 2015. Castro was one of 175 Democrats to vote in favor of HR 1295.^[53]^[54] Defense spending authorization[edit] On May 15, 2015, the House passed HR 1735—the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016—by a vote of 269-151. The bill "authorizes FY2016 appropriations and sets forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It does not provide budget authority, which is provided in subsequent appropriations legislation." Castro voted with 142 other Democrats and eight Republicans against the bill.^[55] The Senate passed the bill on June 18, 2015, by a vote of 71-25. President Barack Obama vetoed the bill on October 22, 2015.^[56] On November 5, 2015, the House passed S 1356—the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016—by a vote of 370-58. The second version of the $607 billion national defense bill included $5 billion in cuts to match what was approved in the budget and language preventing the closure of the Guantanamo Bay military prison.^[57]^[58] Castro voted with 134 other Democrats and 235 Republicans to approve the bill.^[59] On November 10, 2015, the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 91-3, and President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 25, 2015.^[60] 2016 Budget proposal[edit] On April 30, 2015, the House voted to approve SConRes11, a congressional budget proposal for fiscal year 2016, by a vote of 226-197. The non-binding resolution was designed to create 12 appropriations bills to fund the government. All 183 Democrats who voted, including Castro, voted against the resolution.^[61]^[62]^[63] 2015 budget[edit] On October 28, 2015, the House passed HR 1314—the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015—by a vote of 266-167. The bill increased military and domestic spending levels and suspended the debt ceiling until March 2017.^[64] Castro voted with 186 Democrats and 79 Republicans in favor of the bill.^[65] It passed the Senate on October 30, 2015.^[66] President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 2, 2015. Foreign Affairs[edit] Iran nuclear deal[edit] See also: Iran nuclear agreement, 2015 On May 14, 2015, the House approved HR 1191—the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015—by a vote of 400-25. The bill required President Barack Obama to submit the details of the nuclear deal with Iran for congressional review. Congress had 60 days to review the deal and vote to approve, disapprove, or take no action on the deal. During the review period, sanctions on Iran could not be lifted. Castro voted with 176 Democrats to approve the bill.^[67]^[68] Approval of Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action On September 11, 2015, the House rejected HR 3461—To approve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed at Vienna on July 14, 2015, relating to the nuclear program of Iran—by a vote of 162-269. The legislation proposed approving the nuclear agreement with Iran. Castro voted with 161 Democrats for the bill.^[69]^[70] Suspension of Iran sanctions relief On September 11, 2015, the House approved HR 3460—To suspend until January 21, 2017, the authority of the President to waive, suspend, reduce, provide relief from, or otherwise limit the application of sanctions pursuant to an agreement related to the nuclear program of Iran—by a vote of 247-186. HR 3460 prohibited "the President, prior to January 21, 2017, from: limiting the application of specified sanctions on Iran or refraining from applying any such sanctions; or removing a foreign person (including entities) listed in Attachments 3 or 4 to Annex II of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) from the list of designated nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Asset Control of the Department of the Treasury." Castro voted with 185 Democrats against the bill.^[71]^[72] Presidential non-compliance of section 2 On September 10, 2015, the House passed H Res 411—Finding that the President has not complied with section 2 of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015—by a vote of 245-186. Section 2 of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 required the president to submit all materials related to the nuclear agreement for congressional review. House Republicans introduced the resolution because two agreements between the International Atomic Energy Agency and Iran were not submitted to Congress. Castro voted with 185 Democrats against the resolution.^[73]^[74] Export-Import Bank[edit] On October 27, 2015, the House passed HR 597—the Export-Import Bank Reform and Reauthorization Act of 2015—by a vote of 313-118. The bill proposed reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank and allowing it to resume offering assistance in the form of loans and insurance to foreign companies that wanted to buy U.S. goods.^[75] Castro voted with 185 Democrats and 127 Republicans in favor of the bill.^[76] Domestic[edit] USA FREEDOM Act of 2015[edit] On May 13, 2015, the House passed HR 2048 - the Uniting and Strengthening America by Fulfilling Rights and Ensuring Effective Discipline Over Monitoring Act of 2015 or the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015 by a vote of 338-88. The legislation revised HR 3199 - the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 by terminating the bulk collection of metadata under Sec. 215 of the act, requiring increased reporting from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court and requiring the use of "a specific selection term as the basis for national security letters that request information from wire or electronic communication service providers, financial institutions, or consumer reporting agencies." Castro was one of five Democrats who did not vote. It became law on June 2, 2015.^[77]^[78] Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act[edit] On May 13, 2015, the House passed HR 36—the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act—by a vote of 242-184. The bill proposed prohibiting abortions from being performed after a fetus was determined to be 20 weeks or older. The bill proposed exceptions in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. Castro voted with 179 Democrats against the bill.^[79]^[80] Cyber security[edit] On April 23, 2015, the House passed HR 1731—the National Cybersecurity Protection Advancement Act of 2015—by a vote of 355-63. The bill proposed creating an information sharing program that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. It also proposed including liability protections for companies.^[81] Castro voted with 134 Democrats and 220 Republicans to approve the bill.^[82] On April 22, 2015, the House passed HR 1560—the Protecting Cyber Networks Act—by a vote of 307-116.^[83] The bill proposed procedures that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. Castro voted with 104 Democrats and 202 Republicans in favor of the bill.^[84] Immigration[edit] On November 19, 2015, the House passed HR 4038—the American SAFE Act of 2015—by a vote of 289-137.^[85] The bill proposed instituting additional screening processes for refugees from Iraq and Syria who applied for admission to the U.S. Castro voted with 134 Democrats and two Republicans against the bill.^[86] 113th Congress[edit] The second session of the 113th Congress enacted into law 224 out of the 3215 introduced bills (7 percent). Comparatively, the 112th Congress had 4.2 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[87] For more information pertaining to Castro's voting record in the 113th Congress, please see the below sections.^[88] National security[edit] NDAA[edit] Castro voted for HR 1960 - the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014. The bill passed the House on June 14, 2013, with a vote of 315 - 108. Both parties were somewhat divided on the vote.^[89] DHS Appropriations[edit] Castro voted against HR 2217 - the DHS Appropriations Act of 2014. The bill passed the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 245 - 182 that was largely along party lines.^[90] CISPA (2013)[edit] Castro voted against HR 624 - the CISPA (2013). The bill passed the House on April 18, 2013, with a vote of 288 - 127. The bill permitted federal intelligence agencies to share cybersecurity intelligence and information with private entities and utilities. The bill was largely supported by Republicans, but divided the Democratic Party.^[91] Economy[edit] Farm bill[edit] On January 29, 2014, the U.S. House approved the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013, H.R. 2642, known as the Farm Bill.^[92] The bill passed by a vote of 251-166. The nearly 1,000-page bill provides for the reform and continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through 2018. The $1 trillion bill expanded crop insurance for farmers by $7 billion over the next decade and created new subsidies for rice and peanut growers that would kick in when prices drop.^[93]^[94] However, cuts to the food stamp program cut an average of $90 per month for 1.7 million people in 15 states.^[94] Castro voted with 102 other Democratic representatives against the bill. 2014 Budget[edit] On January 15, 2014, the Republican-run House approved H.R. 3547, a $1.1 trillion spending bill to fund the government through September 30, 2014.^[95]^[96] The House voted 359-67 for the 1,582 page bill, with 64 Republicans and three Democrats voting against the bill.^[96] The omnibus package included 12 annual spending bills to fund federal operations.^[97] It included a 1 percent increase in the paychecks of federal workers and military personnel, a $1 billion increase in Head Start funding for early childhood education, reduced funding to the Internal Revenue Service and the Environmental Protection Agency, and the protection of the Affordable Care Act from any drastic cuts. Castro joined with the majority of the Democratic party and voted in favor of the bill.^[95]^[96] Government shutdown[edit] See also: United States budget debate, 2013 On September 30, 2013, the House passed a final stopgap spending bill before the shutdown went into effect. The bill included a one-year delay of the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate and would have also stripped the bill of federal subsidies for congressional members and staff. It passed through the House with a vote of 228-201.^[98] At 1 a.m. on October 1, 2013, one hour after the shutdown officially began, the House voted to move forward with going to a conference. In short order, Sen. Harry Reid rejected the call to conference.^[99] Castro voted against the stopgap spending bill that would have delayed the individual mandate.^[100] The shutdown ended on October 16, 2013, when the House took a vote on HR 2775 after it was approved by the Senate. The bill to reopen the government lifted the $16.7 trillion debt limit and funded the government through January 15, 2014. Federal employees also received retroactive pay for the shutdown period. The only concession made by Senate Democrats was to require income verification for Obamacare subsidies.^[101] The House passed the legislation shortly after the Senate, by a vote of 285-144, with all 144 votes against the legislation coming from Republican members. Castro voted for HR 2775.^[102] Castro said he would give up his pay in the event of a shutdown.^[103] "I hope you will ask Senator Ted Cruz why he refuses to give up his pay during a shutdown he pushed for," he added.^[103] Federal Pay Adjustment Elimination[edit] Castro voted against HR 273 - Eliminates the 2013 Statutory Pay Adjustment for Federal Employees. The bill passed the House on February 15, 2013, with a vote of 261 - 154. The bill called for stopping a 0.5 percent pay increase for all federal workers from taking effect. The raises were projected to cost $11 billion over 10 years.^[104] Immigration[edit] Morton Memos Prohibition[edit] Castro voted against House Amendment 136 - Prohibits the Enforcement of the Immigration Executive Order. The amendment was adopted by the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 224 - 201. The purpose of the amendment as stated on the official text is to "prohibit the use of funds to finalize, implement, administer, or enforce the Morton Memos." These memos would have granted administrative amnesty to certain individuals residing in the United States without legal status.^[105] The vote largely followed party lines.^[106] Healthcare[edit] Healthcare Reform Rules[edit] Castro voted against House Amendment 450 - Requires Congressional Approval for Any Rules Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The amendment was adopted by the House on August 2, 2013, with a vote of 227-185. The amendment requires that all changes to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act be approved by Congress before taking effect. The vote was largely along party lines.^[107] Social issues[edit] Abortion[edit] Castro voted against HR 1797 - Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The resolution passed the House on June 18, 2013, with a vote of 228 - 196 that largely followed party lines. The purpose of the bill was to ban abortions that would take place 20 or more weeks after fertilization.^[108]

Key votes (click "show" to expand or "hide" to contract)

Key votes: 115th Congress, 2017-2018[edit]

For detailed information about each vote, click here.

Votes on domestic policy (click to expand)

Voted Yea on: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (Conference report) (HR 2)

Bill Passed (369-47) on December 12, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance through fiscal year 2023.^[6]

Voted Nay on: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2 (second vote))

Bill Passed (213-211) on June 21, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance. It also proposed modifying the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously known as the food stamp program.^[7]

Voted Nay on: Securing America’s Future Act of 2018 (HR 4760)

Bill Failed (193-231) on June 21, 2018

Proposed funding a border wall, limiting legal immigration, a mandatory worker verification program, allowing DACA recipients to apply for legal status, and preventing separation of families at the border.^[8]

Voted Yea on: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2)

Bill Passed (369-47) on December 12, 2018

Reauthorizes through FY2023 and modifies some Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs.^[9]

Voted Nay on: Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (HR 36)

Bill Passed (237-189) on October 3, 2017

Proposed amending the federal criminal code to make it a crime for any person to perform or attempt to perform an abortion if the probable post-fertilization age of the fetus was 20 weeks or more. The bill provided exceptions for an abortion: (1) that was necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman, or (2) when the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.^[10]

Voted Nay on: Kate's Law (HR 3004)

Bill Passed (257-167) on June 29, 2017

Proposed increasing criminal penalties for individuals in the country illegally who were convicted of certain crimes, deported, and then re-entered the U.S. illegally.^[11]

Voted Nay on: No Sanctuary for Criminals Act (HR 3003)

Bill Passed (228-195) on June 29, 2017

Proposed withholding federal funds from states and localities that chose not to follow federal immigration laws.^[12]

Voted Nay on: American Health Care Act of 2017 (HR 1628)

Bill passed (217-213) on May 4, 2017

Proposed modifying the budgetary and fiscal provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.^[13]

Votes on economic affairs and regulations (click to expand)

Voted Yea on: Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 (Conference report) (HR 6157)

Bill Passed (361-61) on September 26, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.^[14]

Voted Yea on: Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019 (Conference report) (HR 5895)

Bill Passed (377-20) on September 13, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.^[15]

Voted Yea on: Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 (HR 6157)

Bill Passed (359-49) on June 28, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.^[16]

Voted Nay on: Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 (HR 5895)

Bill Passed (235-179) on June 8, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.^[17]

Voted Nay on: Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (S 2155)

Bill Passed (258-159) on May 22, 2018

Proposed exempting some banks from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act^[18]

Voted Nay on: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1625)

Bill Passed (256-167) on March 22, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes.^[19]

Voted Nay on: The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 (HR 1892)

Bill Passed (240-186) on February 9, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations through March 23, 2018.^[20]

Voted Nay on: Further Extension Of Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1892)

Bill Passed (245-182) on February 6, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations through March 23, 2018.^[21]

Voted Nay on: Making further continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. (HR 195)

Bill Passed (266-150) on January 22, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 8, 2018.^[22]

Voted Nay on: Making further continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. (HR 195)

Bill Passed (230-197) on January 18, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 16, 2018.^[23]

Voted Nay on: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1370)

Bill Passed (231-188) on December 21, 2017

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through January 19, 2018.^[24]

Voted Nay on: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

Bill Passed (227-203) on December 19, 2017

Proposed providing for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018.^[25]

Voted Nay on: Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes (HJ Res 123)

Bill Passed (235-193) on December 7, 2017

Proposed funding the government until December 22, 2017.^[26]

Voted Nay on: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

Bill Passed (227-205) on November 16, 2017

Proposed amending the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses.^[27]

Voted Nay on: Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71)

Bill Passed (216-212) on October 26, 2017

Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2018 and setting forth budgetary levels for FY2019-FY2027. (This bill proposed adopting the Senate's budget resolution.)^[28]

Voted Nay on: Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71)

Bill Passed (219-206) on October 5, 2017

Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2018 and setting forth budgetary levels for FY2019-FY2027.^[29]

Voted Nay on: Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 3354)

Bill Passed (211-198) on September 14, 2017

Proposed providing FY2018 appropriations for the federal government. It combined 12 appropriations bills.^[30]

Voted Yea on: Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (Included amendments to suspend the debt ceiling and fund the government) (HR 601)

Bill Passed (316-90) on September 8, 2017

Proposed suspending the debt ceiling and funding the government until December 8, 2017, and providing funding for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts.^[31]

Voted Yea on: Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (HR 601)

Bill Passed (419-3) on September 6, 2017

Proposed providing $7.85 billion for disaster relief requirements, including response and recovery efforts from Hurricane Harvey.^[32]

Voted Nay on: Financial CHOICE Act of 2017 (HR 10)

Bill passed (233-186) on June 8, 2017

Proposed amending the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, among other acts.^[33]

Voted Nay on: Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 (HR 244)

Bill passed (309-118) on May 3, 2017

Proposed a $1.2 trillion budget to fund the government through the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2017.^[34]

Votes on foreign policy and national security issues (click to expand)

Voted Yea on: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (HR 5515)

Bill Passed (351-66) on May 24, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities^[35]

Voted Nay on: Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 695)

Bill Passed (250-166) on January 30, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations for military functions administered by the Department of Defense and for other purposes, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018.^[36]

Voted Yea on: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018—Conference report (HR 2810)

Bill Passed (356-70) on November 14, 2017

Proposed authorizing FY2018 appropriations and setting forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths.^[37]

Voted Nay on: Make America Secure Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 3219)

Bill Passed (235-192) on July 27, 2017

Proposed making appropriations for defense, military construction, Veterans Affairs, the Legislative Branch, energy and water development, and for other purposes for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2018.^[38]

Voted Yea on: Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (HR 3364)

Bill Passed (419-3) on July 25, 2017

Proposed providing congressional review and measures to counter aggression by the governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes.^[39]

Voted Yea on: Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 3180, second vote)

Bill Passed (380-35) on July 28, 2017

Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.^[40]

Voted Nay on: Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 3180)

Bill Failed (241-163) on July 24, 2017

Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.^[41]

Voted Yea on: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 2810)

Bill Passed (344-81) on July 14, 2017

Proposed authorizing fiscal year 2018 appropriations and setting forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It did not provide budget authority.^[42]

Voted Yea on: Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2017 (HR 1301)

Bill passed (371-48) on March 8, 2017

The $577.9 billion fiscal year 2017 defense spending bill proposed $516.1 billion in base budget funding and $61.8 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations/ Global War on Terrorism funding.^[43]

114th Congress[edit]

The first session of the 114th Congress enacted into law six out of the 2,616 introduced bills (0.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 1.3 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the first session. In the second session, the 114th Congress enacted 133 out of 3,159 introduced bills (4.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 7.0 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[44]^[45] For more information pertaining to Castro's voting record in the 114th Congress, please see the below sections.^[46]

Economic and fiscal[edit]

Trade Act of 2015[edit]

See also: The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, 2015

Trade adjustment assistance
On June 12, 2015, the House rejected the trade adjustment assistance (TAA) measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015—by a vote of 126-302. Trade adjustment assistance (TAA) is a federal program providing American workers displaced by foreign trade agreements with job training and services. The measure was packaged with trade promotion authority (TPA), also known as fast-track authority. TPA is a legislative procedure that allows Congress to define "U.S. negotiating objectives and spells out a detailed oversight and consultation process for during trade negotiations. Under TPA, Congress retains the authority to review and decide whether any proposed U.S. trade agreement will be implemented," according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Castro was one of 144 Democrats to vote against the bill.^[47]^[48]
Trade promotion authority
On June 12, 2015, the House passed the trade promotion authority (TPA) measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015 —by a vote of 219-211. TPA gives the president fast-track authority to negotiate trade agreements sent to Congress without the opportunity for amendment or filibuster. Although the House approved TPA, it was a largely symbolic vote given the measure was part of a package trade bill including trade adjustment assistance (TAA), which was rejected earlier the same day. Castro was one of 157 Democrats to vote against the measure.^[49]^[50]
Trade promotion authority second vote
After the trade adjustment assistance (TAA) and trade promotion authority (TPA) did not pass the House together on June 12, 2015, representatives voted to authorize TPA alone as an amendment to HR 2146—the Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act—on June 18, 2015. The amendment passed by a vote of 218-208, with all voting members of the House maintaining his or her original position on TPA except for Ted Yoho (R-Fla.). Castro was one of 158 Democrats to vote against the amendment.^[51]^[52]
Trade adjustment assistance second vote
The House passed HR 1295—the Trade Preferences Extension Act of 2015—on June 25, 2015, by a vote of 286-138. The Senate packaged trade adjustment assistance (TAA) in this bill after the House rejected the TAA measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015. Along with trade promotion authority (TPA), which Congress passed as part of HR 2146—the Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act—TAA became law on June 29, 2015. Castro was one of 175 Democrats to vote in favor of HR 1295.^[53]^[54]

Defense spending authorization[edit]

On May 15, 2015, the House passed HR 1735—the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016—by a vote of 269-151. The bill "authorizes FY2016 appropriations and sets forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It does not provide budget authority, which is provided in subsequent appropriations legislation." Castro voted with 142 other Democrats and eight Republicans against the bill.^[55] The Senate passed the bill on June 18, 2015, by a vote of 71-25. President Barack Obama vetoed the bill on October 22, 2015.^[56]

On November 5, 2015, the House passed S 1356—the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016—by a vote of 370-58. The second version of the $607 billion national defense bill included $5 billion in cuts to match what was approved in the budget and language preventing the closure of the Guantanamo Bay military prison.^[57]^[58] Castro voted with 134 other Democrats and 235 Republicans to approve the bill.^[59] On November 10, 2015, the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 91-3, and President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 25, 2015.^[60]

2016 Budget proposal[edit]

On April 30, 2015, the House voted to approve SConRes11, a congressional budget proposal for fiscal year 2016, by a vote of 226-197. The non-binding resolution was designed to create 12 appropriations bills to fund the government. All 183 Democrats who voted, including Castro, voted against the resolution.^[61]^[62]^[63]

2015 budget[edit]

On October 28, 2015, the House passed HR 1314—the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015—by a vote of 266-167. The bill increased military and domestic spending levels and suspended the debt ceiling until March 2017.^[64] Castro voted with 186 Democrats and 79 Republicans in favor of the bill.^[65] It passed the Senate on October 30, 2015.^[66] President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 2, 2015.

Foreign Affairs[edit]

Iran nuclear deal[edit]

See also: Iran nuclear agreement, 2015

On May 14, 2015, the House approved HR 1191—the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015—by a vote of 400-25. The bill required President Barack Obama to submit the details of the nuclear deal with Iran for congressional review. Congress had 60 days to review the deal and vote to approve, disapprove, or take no action on the deal. During the review period, sanctions on Iran could not be lifted. Castro voted with 176 Democrats to approve the bill.^[67]^[68]

Approval of Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action
On September 11, 2015, the House rejected HR 3461—To approve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed at Vienna on July 14, 2015, relating to the nuclear program of Iran—by a vote of 162-269. The legislation proposed approving the nuclear agreement with Iran. Castro voted with 161 Democrats for the bill.^[69]^[70]

Suspension of Iran sanctions relief
On September 11, 2015, the House approved HR 3460—To suspend until January 21, 2017, the authority of the President to waive, suspend, reduce, provide relief from, or otherwise limit the application of sanctions pursuant to an agreement related to the nuclear program of Iran—by a vote of 247-186. HR 3460 prohibited "the President, prior to January 21, 2017, from: limiting the application of specified sanctions on Iran or refraining from applying any such sanctions; or removing a foreign person (including entities) listed in Attachments 3 or 4 to Annex II of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) from the list of designated nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Asset Control of the Department of the Treasury." Castro voted with 185 Democrats against the bill.^[71]^[72]

Presidential non-compliance of section 2
On September 10, 2015, the House passed H Res 411—Finding that the President has not complied with section 2 of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015—by a vote of 245-186. Section 2 of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 required the president to submit all materials related to the nuclear agreement for congressional review. House Republicans introduced the resolution because two agreements between the International Atomic Energy Agency and Iran were not submitted to Congress. Castro voted with 185 Democrats against the resolution.^[73]^[74]

Export-Import Bank[edit]

On October 27, 2015, the House passed HR 597—the Export-Import Bank Reform and Reauthorization Act of 2015—by a vote of 313-118. The bill proposed reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank and allowing it to resume offering assistance in the form of loans and insurance to foreign companies that wanted to buy U.S. goods.^[75] Castro voted with 185 Democrats and 127 Republicans in favor of the bill.^[76]

Domestic[edit]

USA FREEDOM Act of 2015[edit]

On May 13, 2015, the House passed HR 2048 - the Uniting and Strengthening America by Fulfilling Rights and Ensuring Effective Discipline Over Monitoring Act of 2015 or the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015 by a vote of 338-88. The legislation revised HR 3199 - the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 by terminating the bulk collection of metadata under Sec. 215 of the act, requiring increased reporting from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court and requiring the use of "a specific selection term as the basis for national security letters that request information from wire or electronic communication service providers, financial institutions, or consumer reporting agencies." Castro was one of five Democrats who did not vote. It became law on June 2, 2015.^[77]^[78]

Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act[edit]

On May 13, 2015, the House passed HR 36—the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act—by a vote of 242-184. The bill proposed prohibiting abortions from being performed after a fetus was determined to be 20 weeks or older. The bill proposed exceptions in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. Castro voted with 179 Democrats against the bill.^[79]^[80]

Cyber security[edit]

On April 23, 2015, the House passed HR 1731—the National Cybersecurity Protection Advancement Act of 2015—by a vote of 355-63. The bill proposed creating an information sharing program that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. It also proposed including liability protections for companies.^[81] Castro voted with 134 Democrats and 220 Republicans to approve the bill.^[82]

On April 22, 2015, the House passed HR 1560—the Protecting Cyber Networks Act—by a vote of 307-116.^[83] The bill proposed procedures that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. Castro voted with 104 Democrats and 202 Republicans in favor of the bill.^[84]

Immigration[edit]

On November 19, 2015, the House passed HR 4038—the American SAFE Act of 2015—by a vote of 289-137.^[85] The bill proposed instituting additional screening processes for refugees from Iraq and Syria who applied for admission to the U.S. Castro voted with 134 Democrats and two Republicans against the bill.^[86]

113th Congress[edit]

The second session of the 113th Congress enacted into law 224 out of the 3215 introduced bills (7 percent). Comparatively, the 112th Congress had 4.2 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[87] For more information pertaining to Castro's voting record in the 113th Congress, please see the below sections.^[88]

National security[edit]

NDAA[edit]

Castro voted for HR 1960 - the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014. The bill passed the House on June 14, 2013, with a vote of 315 - 108. Both parties were somewhat divided on the vote.^[89]

DHS Appropriations[edit]

Castro voted against HR 2217 - the DHS Appropriations Act of 2014. The bill passed the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 245 - 182 that was largely along party lines.^[90]

CISPA (2013)[edit]

Castro voted against HR 624 - the CISPA (2013). The bill passed the House on April 18, 2013, with a vote of 288 - 127. The bill permitted federal intelligence agencies to share cybersecurity intelligence and information with private entities and utilities. The bill was largely supported by Republicans, but divided the Democratic Party.^[91]

Economy[edit]

Farm bill[edit]

On January 29, 2014, the U.S. House approved the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013, H.R. 2642, known as the Farm Bill.^[92] The bill passed by a vote of 251-166. The nearly 1,000-page bill provides for the reform and continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through 2018. The $1 trillion bill expanded crop insurance for farmers by $7 billion over the next decade and created new subsidies for rice and peanut growers that would kick in when prices drop.^[93]^[94] However, cuts to the food stamp program cut an average of $90 per month for 1.7 million people in 15 states.^[94] Castro voted with 102 other Democratic representatives against the bill.

2014 Budget[edit]

On January 15, 2014, the Republican-run House approved H.R. 3547, a $1.1 trillion spending bill to fund the government through September 30, 2014.^[95]^[96] The House voted 359-67 for the 1,582 page bill, with 64 Republicans and three Democrats voting against the bill.^[96] The omnibus package included 12 annual spending bills to fund federal operations.^[97] It included a 1 percent increase in the paychecks of federal workers and military personnel, a $1 billion increase in Head Start funding for early childhood education, reduced funding to the Internal Revenue Service and the Environmental Protection Agency, and the protection of the Affordable Care Act from any drastic cuts. Castro joined with the majority of the Democratic party and voted in favor of the bill.^[95]^[96]

Government shutdown[edit]

See also: United States budget debate, 2013

On September 30, 2013, the House passed a final stopgap spending bill before the shutdown went into effect. The bill included a one-year delay of the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate and would have also stripped the bill of federal subsidies for congressional members and staff. It passed through the House with a vote of 228-201.^[98] At 1 a.m. on October 1, 2013, one hour after the shutdown officially began, the House voted to move forward with going to a conference. In short order, Sen. Harry Reid rejected the call to conference.^[99] Castro voted against the stopgap spending bill that would have delayed the individual mandate.^[100]

The shutdown ended on October 16, 2013, when the House took a vote on HR 2775 after it was approved by the Senate. The bill to reopen the government lifted the $16.7 trillion debt limit and funded the government through January 15, 2014. Federal employees also received retroactive pay for the shutdown period. The only concession made by Senate Democrats was to require income verification for Obamacare subsidies.^[101] The House passed the legislation shortly after the Senate, by a vote of 285-144, with all 144 votes against the legislation coming from Republican members. Castro voted for HR 2775.^[102]

Castro said he would give up his pay in the event of a shutdown.^[103]

"I hope you will ask Senator Ted Cruz why he refuses to give up his pay during a shutdown he pushed for," he added.^[103]

Federal Pay Adjustment Elimination[edit]

Castro voted against HR 273 - Eliminates the 2013 Statutory Pay Adjustment for Federal Employees. The bill passed the House on February 15, 2013, with a vote of 261 - 154. The bill called for stopping a 0.5 percent pay increase for all federal workers from taking effect. The raises were projected to cost $11 billion over 10 years.^[104]

Immigration[edit]

Morton Memos Prohibition[edit]

Castro voted against House Amendment 136 - Prohibits the Enforcement of the Immigration Executive Order. The amendment was adopted by the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 224 - 201. The purpose of the amendment as stated on the official text is to "prohibit the use of funds to finalize, implement, administer, or enforce the Morton Memos." These memos would have granted administrative amnesty to certain individuals residing in the United States without legal status.^[105] The vote largely followed party lines.^[106]

Healthcare[edit]

Healthcare Reform Rules[edit]

Castro voted against House Amendment 450 - Requires Congressional Approval for Any Rules Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The amendment was adopted by the House on August 2, 2013, with a vote of 227-185. The amendment requires that all changes to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act be approved by Congress before taking effect. The vote was largely along party lines.^[107]

Social issues[edit]

Abortion[edit]

Castro voted against HR 1797 - Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The resolution passed the House on June 18, 2013, with a vote of 228 - 196 that largely followed party lines. The purpose of the bill was to ban abortions that would take place 20 or more weeks after fertilization.^[108]

Issues[edit]

Elections[edit]

2020[edit]

Texas' 20th Congressional District election, 2020 (March 3 Republican primary)

Texas' 20th Congressional District election, 2020 (March 3 Democratic primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House Texas District 20

Incumbent Joaquin Castro defeated Mauro Garza and Jeffrey Blunt in the general election for U.S. House Texas District 20 on November 3, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Joaquin Castro (D)	64.7	175,078
	Mauro Garza (R)	33.1	89,628
	Jeffrey Blunt (L)	2.2	6,017

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 270,723
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Republican primary runoff election

Republican primary runoff for U.S. House Texas District 20

Mauro Garza defeated Gary Allen in the Republican primary runoff for U.S. House Texas District 20 on July 14, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Mauro Garza	60.1	7,162
	Gary Allen	39.9	4,762

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 11,924
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 20

Incumbent Joaquin Castro defeated Justin Lecea and Rob Hostetler in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 20 on March 3, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Joaquin Castro	92.1	61,861
	Justin Lecea	4.5	3,047
	Rob Hostetler	3.4	2,252

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 67,160
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Texas District 20

Mauro Garza and Gary Allen advanced to a runoff. They defeated Dominick Dina, Anita Kegley, and Tammy Orta in the Republican primary for U.S. House Texas District 20 on March 3, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Mauro Garza	33.3	7,720
✔	Gary Allen	26.9	6,230
	Dominick Dina	22.6	5,242
	Anita Kegley	9.5	2,210
	Tammy Orta	7.7	1,786

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 23,188
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Libertarian convention

Libertarian convention for U.S. House Texas District 20

Jeffrey Blunt advanced from the Libertarian convention for U.S. House Texas District 20 on March 21, 2020.

		Candidate
✔		Jeffrey Blunt (L)

	There were no incumbents in this race.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Adam Jonasz (Independent)
Adam Martinez-Gomez (Independent)
Dan McQueen (R)
Joshua Carrizales (R)

2018[edit]

See also: Texas' 20th Congressional District election, 2018

General election

General election for U.S. House Texas District 20

Incumbent Joaquin Castro defeated Jeffrey Blunt in the general election for U.S. House Texas District 20 on November 6, 2018.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Joaquin Castro (D)	80.9	139,038
	Jeffrey Blunt (L)	19.1	32,925

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 171,963
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 20

Incumbent Joaquin Castro advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 20 on March 6, 2018.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Joaquin Castro	100.0	32,189

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 32,189
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2016[edit]

See also: Texas' 20th Congressional District election, 2016

Heading into the election, Ballotpedia rated this race as safely Democratic. Incumbent Joaquin Castro (D) defeated Paul Pipkin (G) and Jeffrey Blunt (L) in the general election on November 8, 2016. Castro faced no opposition in the Democratic primary on March 1, 2016. No Republican candidates filed to run in the race.^[110]^[111]

U.S. House, Texas District 20 General Election, 2016
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Joaquin Castro Incumbent	79.7%	149,640
	Libertarian	Jeffrey Blunt	15.5%	29,055
	Green	Paul Pipkin	4.8%	8,974
Total Votes				187,669
Source: Texas Secretary of State

2014[edit]

See also: Texas' 20th Congressional District elections, 2014

Castro won re-election to the U.S. House in 2014. He won the Democratic nomination in the primary election on March 4, 2014, with no opposition. He defeated Jeffrey Blunt (L) in the general election on November 4, 2014.^[112]

U.S. House, Texas District 20 General Election, 2014
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Joaquin Castro Incumbent	75.7%	66,554
	Libertarian	Jeffrey Blunt	24.3%	21,410
Total Votes				87,964
Source: Texas Secretary of State

2012[edit]

See also: Texas' 20th Congressional District elections, 2012

Castro won election in the 2012 election for the U.S. House, representing Texas' 20th District. He ran unopposed in the Democratic primary on May 29, 2012. He defeated David Rosa (R), A.E. Potts (L) and Antonio Diaz (G) in the general election on November 6, 2012.^[113]^[114]

U.S. House, Texas District 20 General Election, 2012
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Joaquin Castro	63.9%	119,032
	Republican	David Rosa	33.5%	62,376
	Libertarian	A.E. Potts	1.7%	3,143
	Green	Antonio Diaz	0.9%	1,626
Total Votes				186,177
Source: Texas Secretary of State "Official Election Results, 2012 General Election"

2010[edit]

See also: Texas House of Representatives elections, 2010

Castro won re-election in District 125. He was unopposed in the March 2 Democratic primary and defeated Libertarian Jeffrey Blunt in the November 2 general election.^[115]

Texas House of Representatives, District 125 2010 General election results
Candidates	Votes	Percent
Joaquin Castro (D)	16,590	78.49%
Jeffrey Blunt (L)	4,545	21.5%

2008[edit]

On November 4, 2008, Castro won re-election to the Texas House of Representatives from the 125th District, receiving 36,003 votes without opposition.^[116] He raised $100,536 for his campaign.^[117]

Texas House of Representatives, District 125
Candidates		Votes	Percent
Joaquin Castro (D)		36,003	100.00%

Campaign themes[edit]

2020[edit]

Ballotpedia survey responses

Joaquin Castro did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.

Presidential preference[edit]

2020[edit]

See also: Presidential election in Texas, 2020 and Democratic National Convention, 2020

Castro initially endorsed Julian Castro (D) and then Elizabeth Warren (D) in the 2020 presidential election.^[118]^[119]

2016[edit]

See also: Presidential election in Texas, 2016 and Democratic National Convention, 2016

Castro endorsed Hillary Clinton (D) in the 2020 presidential election.^[120]

Campaign donors[edit]

Comprehensive donor history[edit]

Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

Joaquin Castro campaign contribution history
Year	Office	Result	Contributions
2018	U.S. House Texas District 20	✔	$937,439
2016	U.S. House, Texas District 20	✔	$1,187,623
2014	U.S. House (Texas, District 20)	✔	$1,296,471
2012	U.S. House Texas District 20	✔	$1,494,023
Grand total raised			$4,915,556
Source: Follow the Money

2018[edit]

U.S. House Texas District 20 2018 election - Campaign Contributions
Top industry contributors to Joaquin Castro's campaign in 2018
Labor	$133,250.00
Finance, Insurance & Real Estate	$97,430.50
General Business	$64,950.00
Lawyers & Lobbyists	$56,900.00
Communications & Electronics	$48,500.00
Total Raised in 2018	$937,438.85
Source: Follow the Money

U.S. House Texas District 20 2018 election - Campaign Contributions
Top individual contributors to Joaquin Castro's campaign in 2018
VAN BUREN, TONI-MARIE	$5,900.00
STARR, MATTHEW T	$5,400.00
STARR, JODI M.	$5,400.00
GARZA-COX, SANJIE	$5,000.00
MILMO, ALBERTO F	$4,843.00
Total Raised in 2018	$937,438.85
Source: Follow the Money

2016[edit]

Castro won re-election to the U.S. House in 2016. During that election cycle, Castro's campaign committee raised a total of $1,187,623 and spent $1,291,434.^[121] This is less than the average $1.46 million spent by U.S. House winners in 2016.^[122]

Cost per vote[edit]

Castro spent $8.63 per general election vote received in 2016.

U.S. House, Texas District 20, 2016 - Joaquin Castro Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$1,187,623
Total Spent	$1,291,434
Total Raised by Election Runner-up	$0
Total Spent by Election Runner-up	$0
Top contributors to Joaquin Castro's campaign committee
New Democrat Coalition	$16,400
Kirkland & Ellis	$11,350
Duty Free Americas	$11,100
Akerman LLP	$10,000
American Crystal Sugar	$10,000
Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
Lawyers/Law Firms	$125,901
Real Estate	$47,400
Building Trade Unions	$40,000
Public Sector Unions	$38,500
Insurance	$36,500
Source: Open Secrets

2014[edit]

Castro won re-election to the U.S. House in 2014. During that election cycle, Castro's campaign committee raised a total of $1,296,471 and spent $1,147,967.^[123] This is less than the average $1.45 million spent by House winners in 2014.^[124]

Cost per vote[edit]

Castro spent $17.25 per general election vote received in 2014.

U.S. House, Texas District 20, 2014 - Joaquin Castro Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$1,296,471
Total Spent	$1,147,967
Total Raised by Election Runner-up	$0
Total Spent by Election Runner-up	$0
Top contributors to Joaquin Castro's campaign committee
Nustar Energy	$16,250
Mednax Inc	$11,250
Capital Group Companies	$10,000
Dell Inc	$10,000
Kirkland & Ellis	$10,000
Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
Lawyers/Law Firms	$140,750
Real Estate	$51,117
Health Professionals	$45,550
Insurance	$43,750
Oil & Gas	$40,500

To view the breakdown of campaign funding by type click [show] to expand the section.
Breakdown of the source of Castro's campaign funds before the 2014 election.

Below are Castro's FEC reports.^[125]

Joaquin Castro (2014) Campaign Finance Reports
Report	Date Filed	Beginning Balance	Total Contributions for Reporting Period	Expenditures	Cash on Hand
April Quarterly^[126]	April 15, 2013	$147,054.23	$121,329.00	$(103,991.37)	$164,391.86
July Quarterly^[127]	July 15, 2013	$164,391.86	$175,438.18	$(97,772.63)	$242,057.41
October Quarterly^[128]	October 15, 2013	$242,057.41	$167,619.08	$(120,329.23)	$289,347.26
Year-End^[129]	January 31, 2014	$289,347	$117,342	$(98,322)	$308,366
Pre-Primary^[130]	February 20, 2014	$308,366	$103,301	$(59,693)	$351,974
April Quarterly^[131]	April 15, 2014	$351,974	$123,611	$(88,986)	$386,600
July Quarterly^[132]	July 15, 2014	$386,600	$151,386	$(180,910)	$357,075
October Quarterly^[133]	October 15, 2014	$357,075	$240,065	$(178,575)	$418,565
			Running totals
			$1,200,091.26	$(928,579.23)

2012[edit]

Castro won election to the U.S. House in 2012. During that election cycle, Castro's campaign committee raised a total of $1,494,023 and spent $1,346,968.^[134] This is less than the average $1.5 million spent by House winners in 2012.^[135]

Cost per vote[edit]

Castro spent $11.32 per vote received in 2012.

U.S. House, Texas District 20, 2012 - Joaquin Castro Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$1,494,023
Total Spent	$1,346,968
Total Raised by Election Runner-up	$54,402
Total Spent by Election Runner-up	$57,952
Top contributors to Joaquin Castro's campaign committee
Blue Cross/Blue Shield	$18,500
Communications Workers of America	$15,000
Escamilla, Poneck & Cruz	$15,000
NuStar Energy	$15,000
Zachry Construction	$11,000
Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
Lawyers/Law Firms	$153,187
Real Estate	$80,916
Oil & Gas	$64,550
Health Professionals	$57,949
Building Trade Unions	$43,500

To view the breakdown of campaign funding by type click [show] to expand the section.
Breakdown of the source of Castro's campaign funds before the 2012 election.

2010[edit]

Castro raised a total of $120,245 in 2010. Below are Castro's top five campaign contributors in the 2010 election:^[136]

Contributor	2010 total
Valero Energy	$3,500
International Bank of Commerce	$2,500
Cedillo, Ricardo	$2,500
Watts, Mikal	$2,500
Wallae, John	$2,500
Texas Association of Realtors	$2,500

2008[edit]

Castro raised $100,536. His top five campaign contributors are listed below.^[137]

Contributor	2008 total
Contender Consulting & Rene Barrientos	$8,300
San Antonio Fire Fighers	$3,500
Joe V Lamantia III	$3,500
Texas Assoc of Realtors	$3,000
San Antonio Police Officers PAC	$2,500

Personal Gain Index[edit]

See also: Personal Gain Index (U.S. Congress)

The Personal Gain Index (U.S. Congress) is a two-part measurement that illustrates the extent to which members of the U.S. Congress have prospered during their tenure as public servants.
It consists of two different metrics:

PGI: Change in net worth[edit]

See also: Changes in Net Worth of U.S. Senators and Representatives (Personal Gain Index) and Net worth of United States Senators and Representatives

Based on congressional financial disclosure forms and calculations made available by OpenSecrets.org, Castro's net worth as of 2012 was estimated between $51,002 and $249,999. That averages to $150,500, which is lower than the average net worth of Democratic representatives in 2012 of $5,700,168.36. Castro ranked as the 364th most wealthy representative in 2012.^[138] Between 2011 and 2012, Castro's calculated net worth^[139] increased by an average of 11 percent per year. Between 2004 and 2012, the average annual percentage increase for a member of Congress was 15.4 percent.^[140]

Joaquin Castro Yearly Net Worth
Year	Average Net Worth
2011	$135,242
2012	$150,500
Growth from 2011 to 2012:	11%
Average annual growth:	11%^[141]
Comparatively, the American citizen experienced a median yearly decline in net worth of -0.94%.^[142]

The data used to calculate changes in net worth may include changes resulting from assets gained through marriage, inheritance, changes in family estates and/or trusts, changes in family business ownership, and many other variables unrelated to a member's behavior in Congress.

PGI: Donation Concentration Metric[edit]

See also: The Donation Concentration Metric (U.S. Congress Personal Gain Index)

Filings required by the Federal Election Commission report on the industries that give to each candidate. Using campaign filings and information calculated by OpenSecrets.org, Ballotpedia calculated the percentage of donations by industry received by each incumbent over the course of his or her career (or 1989 and later, if elected prior to 1988). Castro received the most donations from individuals and PACs employed by the Lawyers/Law Firms industry.

From 2011-2014, 25.69 percent of Castro's career contributions came from the top five industries as listed below.^[143]

Joaquin Castro Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$2,454,051
Total Spent	$2,061,975
Top five industries that contributed to campaign committee
Lawyers/Law Firms	$273,987
Real Estate	$107,100
Oil & Gas	$99,550
Health Professionals	$88,899
Building Trade Unions	$61,000
% total in top industry	11.16%
% total in top two industries	15.53%
% total in top five industries	25.69%

Analysis[edit]

Like-minded colleagues[edit]

The website OpenCongress tracks the voting records of each member to determine with whom he or she votes most and least often. The results include a member from each party.^[144]

Castro most often votes with:

Castro least often votes with:

Lifetime voting record[edit]

See also: Lifetime voting records of United States Senators and Representatives

According to the website GovTrack, Castro missed 45 of 1,736 roll call votes from January 2013 to September 2015. This amounted to 2.6 percent, which was higher than the median of 2.2 percent among representatives as of September 2015.^[145]

National Journal vote ratings[edit]

See also: National Journal vote ratings

Each year National Journal publishes an analysis of how liberally or conservatively each member of Congress voted in the previous year. Click the link above for the full ratings of all members of Congress.

2013[edit]

Castro ranked 123rd in the liberal rankings in 2013.^[146]

Voting with party[edit]

The website OpenCongress tracks how often members of Congress vote with the majority of the chamber caucus.

2014[edit]

Castro voted with the Democratic Party 93.3 percent of the time, which ranked 97th among the 204 House Democratic members as of July 2014.^[147]

2013[edit]

Castro voted with the Democratic Party 94.9 percent of the time, which ranked 117th among the 201 House Democratic members as of June 2013.^[148]

External links[edit]

Search Google News for this topic

Candidate

U.S. House Texas District 20

Officeholder

U.S. House Texas District 20

Personal

Footnotes[edit]

Political offices
Preceded by Charles Gonzalez	U.S. House of Representatives - Texas District 20 2013-present	Succeeded by '
Preceded by '	Texas House District 125 2003–2013	Succeeded by '

[show]

Texas' current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

John Cornyn (R)

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Representatives

District 1

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District 2

Daniel Crenshaw (R)

District 3

Van Taylor (R)

District 4

Pat Fallon (R)

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Lance Gooden (R)

District 6

Jake Ellzey (R)

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Lizzie Fletcher (D)

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Kevin Brady (R)

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Al Green (D)

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Randy Weber (R)

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Vicente Gonzalez (D)

District 16

Veronica Escobar (D)

District 17

Pete Sessions (R)

District 18

Sheila Lee (D)

District 19

Jodey Arrington (R)

District 20

Joaquin Castro (D)

District 21

Chip Roy (R)

District 22

Troy Nehls (R)

District 23

Tony Gonzales (R)

District 24

Beth Van Duyne (R)

District 25

Roger Williams (R)

District 26

Michael Burgess (R)

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Michael Cloud (R)

District 28

Henry Cuellar (D)

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Sylvia Garcia (D)

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Eddie Johnson (D)

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John Carter (R)

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Colin Allred (D)

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Marc Veasey (D)

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Filemon Vela (D)

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Lloyd Doggett (D)

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Brian Babin (R)

District 37

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District 38

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Status: cached on November 18 2021 14:20:47

Joaquin Castro

Contents

Biography[edit]

Career[edit]

Committee assignments[edit]

U.S. House[edit]

2021-2022

2019-2020

2017-2018[edit]

2015-2016[edit]

2013-2014[edit]

Texas House[edit]

2011-2012[edit]

2009-2010[edit]

Key votes[edit]

Key votes: 116th Congress, 2019-2020[edit]

Key votes: Previous sessions of Congress[edit]

Key votes: 115th Congress, 2017-2018[edit]

114th Congress[edit]

Economic and fiscal[edit]

Trade Act of 2015[edit]

Defense spending authorization[edit]

2016 Budget proposal[edit]

2015 budget[edit]

Foreign Affairs[edit]

Iran nuclear deal[edit]

Export-Import Bank[edit]

Domestic[edit]

USA FREEDOM Act of 2015[edit]

Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act[edit]

Cyber security[edit]

Immigration[edit]

113th Congress[edit]

National security[edit]

NDAA[edit]

DHS Appropriations[edit]

CISPA (2013)[edit]

Economy[edit]

Farm bill[edit]

2014 Budget[edit]

Government shutdown[edit]

Federal Pay Adjustment Elimination[edit]

Immigration[edit]

Morton Memos Prohibition[edit]

Healthcare[edit]

Healthcare Reform Rules[edit]

Social issues[edit]

Abortion[edit]

Issues[edit]

Sponsored legislation[edit]

Elections[edit]

2020[edit]

General election for U.S. House Texas District 20

Republican primary runoff for U.S. House Texas District 20

Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 20

Republican primary for U.S. House Texas District 20

Libertarian convention for U.S. House Texas District 20

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

2018[edit]

General election for U.S. House Texas District 20

Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 20

2016[edit]

2014[edit]

2012[edit]

2010[edit]

2008[edit]

Campaign themes[edit]

2020[edit]

Ballotpedia survey responses

Presidential preference[edit]

2020[edit]

2016[edit]

Campaign donors[edit]

Comprehensive donor history[edit]

2018[edit]

2016[edit]

Cost per vote[edit]

2014[edit]

Cost per vote[edit]

2012[edit]